Let’s talk about Cam Smith, the young prospect whose recent performances have Astros fans buzzing with excitement. At just 22 years old and with only 32 minor-league games under his belt, Smith has already shown flashes of brilliance, leaving many to wonder if he could be the Astros’ next big thing. But before we set expectations sky-high, let’s pump the brakes a bit—Smith’s spring heroics don’t automatically make him the Astros’ savior just yet.

It all started when Smith made his way to the Astros as part of the trade with the Cubs for outfielder Kyle Tucker. Who could have predicted the impact he would have in just eight Grapefruit League games?

Currently sporting a 9-for-17 record with two homers, Smith has demonstrated impressive plate discipline by drawing five walks compared to just three strikeouts. That jaw-dropping 1.636 OPS has indeed caught everyone’s attention, sparking debates about whether he’ll get the call to start the season with the big league club.

However, the Astros have some decisions to make. If Christian Walker is ready to man first base on Opening Day, Isaac Paredes takes third, leaving Smith potentially sidelined to a bench role—an unlikely destination for a rising star like him. The Astros’ GM Dana Brown is certainly not going to bench a top prospect like Smith, which means his spot is yet to be determined.

According to reports, the Astros are exploring the idea of transitioning Smith to the outfield. If this move pans out, it might just fill a pressing need for Houston.

They’ve already been testing Jose Altuve in the left field on a part-time basis, so a similar approach could work for Smith. With plans to play Chas McCormick in right field this season, questions loom over his ability to bounce back from last year’s underwhelming performance.

Should McCormick struggle, Smith’s successful transition to the outfield could present the Astros with an ideal replacement for Tucker in right field.

While much of the recent chatter has centered on Smith’s chances of making the Opening Day roster, the real focus should perhaps shift to how well he can adapt to becoming an outfielder. Regardless of when Smith makes his major league debut, the real question is which position he will ultimately call home. One thing’s for sure: the Astros are determined to get Smith’s bat in their lineup, and it’s just a matter of finding the right spot for their emerging talent.