Zach Dezenzo’s Path to the Astros Outfield
A Zach Dezenzo to left field scouting report by Jules Hughan.
The OrangeFire Substack is proud to present our first guest post by Jules Hughan, who examines Zach Denzo’s potential for moving to left field. Follow Jules on Blue Sky at @juleshughan.bsky.social
A former 12th-round pick in 2022, Zach Dezenzo is getting more chances in the outfield as the Astros look to expand his defensive versatility. At six foot five and 220 pounds, he naturally profiles as a corner infielder where his bat-first approach made him a prospect to watch, but the Astros are seeing if he can stick in the outfield. He has started games in left field at both Triple-A Sugar Land and in the Puerto Rican Winter League, giving the Astros a closer look at his instincts and range.
Astros hitting coach Alex Cintrón and Senadores de San Juan GM Ricky Rivera oversaw Dezenzo as he started eight games in left field in Puerto Rico. Astros manager Joe Espada made a four-day visit to evaluate his progress, a sign of just how invested the Astros are in his development.
A Path to Playing Time
Houston’s signing of Gold Glove first baseman Christian Walker blocks Dezenzo’s path at first base. He will still get some starts there, but his best shot at regular at-bats comes if he proves he can handle a corner outfield spot. His bat has always been his calling card as he posted strong power numbers in the minors, but his ability to handle the outfield could be what keeps him in the majors.
He moves well for his size, ranking in the 77th percentile in sprint speed at 28.3 feet per second. His 45th percentile arm strength makes deep throws a challenge, but better accuracy and positioning could help close the gap. His first step is solid, and his lateral quickness helps him close ground, but his reads and routes will ultimately determine whether he can hold his own defensively.
An Important Spring Ahead
Dezenzo is headed to spring training with a major league invite and a chance to prove he can stick in the outfield. The Astros want to see if he can be a legitimate option in left field, and his performance in the Grapefruit League will help determine his role. If he proves he can handle left field and continues to hit, he could make a case for an Opening Day spot or put himself in line for an early-season call-up.