Wallace to get a look at 3B: MLB.com reports that Brett Wallace will get an opportunity to play third base for the Astros this season in an effort to increase his playing time. Wallace began last season as Houston's starting first baseman, but after failing to produce offensively, he was supplanted by Carlos Lee. Wallace will practice defensively at third base this spring, with Lee expected to return as the regular first baseman. (Updated 02/08/2012)
Injury Report
No information available at this time (Updated 2/13/12).
Fantasy Analysis
Wallace played third base as a minor leaguer, so he may not have many difficulties in making the transition back to his old position. The bigger struggle for Wallace is to hit major league pitching, so he is not a cinch to beat out Jimmy Paredes and Chris Johnson for the starting job at third base. Should he win out over his competitors this spring, Wallace is still just an option for owners in NL-only leagues. (Updated 02/08/2012).
02/08/2012 04:32 2012 Fantasy outlooks: Houston Astros
To say the Houston Astros are rebuilding is an understatement, but they have more than a few surprises in the form of young talent. Michael Hurcomb breaks down the American League-bound franchise in his Fantasy team outlook.
Brett Wallace was given the keys to the starting job at first base in 2011, but he underwhelmed in his first full season in the majors. After batting .388 with a .529 slugging percentage in April, his numbers dropped to a .285 average with a .406 slugging percentage by the All-Star break before he completely fell off the map down the stretch. The Astros even started playing Carlos Lee at first base against left-handers and demoted the 25-year-old to the minors toward the end of the season. He finished with a .259 average and hit five home runs with 29 RBI in 115 games. Wallace will have to beat out Lee during the spring to regain his spot at first base so keep an eye on how he does during camp. He still has a decent amount of potential but given the current situation in Houston, target Wallace in NL-only formats on Draft Day. (Updated 1/9/12)