Houston Astros fans react to Jose Altuve's leadoff hit against them in exhibition game: "I don’t know who to cheer for" "Friendly fire?"

Houston Astros fans got their first taste of what it's like to go up against Jose Altuve in the leadoff spot. Altuve is playing for Team Venezuela in the World Baseball Classic, and the Venezuelans faced the Astros in an exhibition game. It is the first time that Altuve has ever taken an at-bat against his team, and he made sure to connect for a base hit.

Altuve has spent his entire MLB career with the Astros, having made his debut in 2011. Since then he has racked up eight All-Star selections and brought home two World Series trophies. It is safe to say he is the face of the franchise, so seeing him play against his team for the first time is rather jarring.

The Astros posted a clip of the hit from Altuve to Twitter, along with an admission that it was slightly awkward.

This is one of the unique joys that the World Baseball Classic brings to fans. They get to see players in new situations that many never imagined. In this case, they saw something they hope they never see again: Altuve going up against the Astros.

Few players are more beloved by their fanbase than Altuve is with the Astros. He has been a paragon of loyalty to the team and the best leader they could have asked for. He was a crucial part of navigating through their recent sign-stealing scandal and bringing the team out on the other side. Then, he helped bring home yet another championship.

Altuve has found success against every other MLB team, so it only made sense that he got a hit off his own team. The former MVP is one of the top offensive threats in the game today. Bringing his skills to Team Venezuala for the World Baseball Classic gives them a fighting chance to win the tournament.

Jose Altuve has reached a level of belovedness in the Houston Astros fanbase that few athletes have ever reached.

Is Jose Altuve the best player on the Houston Astros?

Jose Altuve Houston Astros

With the departure of Justin Verlander to the New York Mets in free agency, Jose Altuve may have reclaimed the title as top player on the team. Other stars like Alex Bregman and Yordan Alvarez have a claim to that role, but it is hard to do better than Altuve.

Even with the young talent the team has in the lineup and the farm system, Jose Altuve could still be the best for years to come.