Jose Altuve, one of Major League Baseball’s most decorated baseball players for the Houston Astros organization, has been named one of Time Magazine’s top 100 most influential people for the year 2025.

Altuve, a native of Maracay, Venezuela, has produced 15 outstanding seasons with the Astros. According to the MLB website, in 2024 Altuve hit for a .295 average, a .350 on-base-percentage, and hit 20 home runs. 

Astros fan Adam Guy, a sophomore, said he is especially inspired by Altuve. 

“I love watching Altuve play the game,” Guy said. “He’s my favorite player and the first I ever saw. His great backstory and grit inspires me as an athlete.”  

Undrafted in the year 2006, Altuve was signed as a free agent by the Astros. He quickly worked his way up from the bottom of professional baseball, boasting huge stats in the minor leagues. Altuve was called up in 2011, and he made his debut in late July of that year.

Fast forward 15 years, and Altuve has become one of the most popular faces of the game. He has inspired many young athletes and plays an active role serving in the community. 

Altuve has been involved yearly in the Astros Community Leaders Program and the Astros Urban Youth Academy, according to the MLB website. His major role as a second baseman for the Astros has led the team to two World Series championships and numerous playoff runs. 

The combination of stud players like Altuve, Bregman, Springer, and Correa made the Astros one of the most exciting and best teams to watch during their run, specifically in 2017.

Sophomore Anna Wizel, another Astros fan, said she loves Altuve. 

“Altuve is below average height like me, and makes me think anything is possible,” Wizel said. “I think he deserves this award, as he’s created a name for himself that people recognize, and is very talented.”                                                                                                                                       

Altuve earned this level of recognition due to his outstanding numbers and the influence he has provided during his time with the Astros. In 2017, Altuve won the American League Most Valuable Player.

The 15-year veteran has already cemented his recognition in the baseball Hall of Fame and deserved to be honored in Time’s magazine top 100 influential in sports.