HOUSTON -- George Springer is having an All-Star type of season -- producing at a high level offensively and playing an outstanding right field for the Astros.
One area that Springer could improve on is his stolen bases. Entering Saturday's game against Cincinnati, Springer has been successful on just four of 10 stolen-base attempts.
Last year, Springer was 16-for-20 on stolen bases. In 2013 between Double-A Corpus Christi and Triple-A Oklahoma City, Springer was a combined 45-for-53.
"He'll continue to add the stolen base to his arsenal," Astros manager A.J. Hinch said. "But I only want our guys to take it when they feel like it's the right thing to do.
"As a whole, our team has run a little bit less recently, because teams are combating that a little by being extraordinarily quick to the plate. Some of the defensive measures they have taken to avoid the stolen base [is] because we've had so much success at it."
Since May 24, Springer has been hitting from the leadoff spot, batting ahead of Jose Altuve and Carlos Correa.
"I'd like for him to take the opportunity to run when he can," Hinch said. "It's not so much about stolen-base totals for me, as I want him to be aggressive. When he's underway, he's one of the more dynamic baserunners that we have.
"So if the opportunity arises, that's fine. A lot of times, with him leading off, and Altuve either right behind him or two away from him, the ball's in play really quickly. So if he doesn't steal on the first couple of pitches, chances are the ball's going to be in play. That's taken away a few of his opportunities. I'd certainly like him to continue to strive to be a more complete player."