Astros third baseman Aaron Boone announced at a press conference this morning in Kissimmee that he will miss the entire season in order to have open heart surgery. Boone was signed during to offseason to be part of a platoon at third base with Geoff Blum, leaving that spot in the lineup very much in doubt with Opening Day three weeks away.
Boone, 36, will have surgery to repair a congenitally malfunctioning aortic valve soon. The recovery time will keep him out for the season. While it's possible that he'll be healthy enough to play again, he won't be under contract with the Astros this time next year. At his age, it's quite possible that his playing career is over.
Almost the entire team appeared with Boone at the press conference in a show of solidarity and support. While Boone was not expected to be an everyday player, he was anticipated to be a strong veteran presence in the clubhouse, and his contributions in this area will be missed.
Boone's departure potentially opens the door for rookie Chris Johnson, who (until today) was expected to start the season in Round Rock. Johnson has opened eyes in this otherwise horrific Spring Training with his lively bat and better-than-advertised defense. Alternatively, Miguel Tejada has also signalled his willingness to play third if called upon, which would open up the shortstop position for another youngester (likely defensive whiz Tommy Manzella or offense-oriented Edwin Maysonet ).
Cecil Cooper has to decide how to move on from here, but for now, the team's thoughts and prayers are with Boone.
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Photo courtesy of Flickr user mx5tx.
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