Houston Astros Rising Star Discusses Biggest Challenge He’s Facing This Year.
A young talent for the Houston Astros appears to be aware of what will be the hardest part of the game for him to master this year.
One of the less discussed plots over the summer and as Spring Training approaches is the identity of the person who will be fielding pitches from the Houston Astros’ elite staff.
The seasoned Martin Maldonado was used as their regular catcher for a considerable amount of time.
His mediocre offensive numbers were offset by his outstanding defense and general presence behind the plate.
However, rookie Yainer Diaz’s big hit gave the Astros a taste of what it may be like to have another impact bat in their order.In his 104 games, he is batting 282/.308/.538 with 23 home runs, 60 RBI, and an OPS+ of 128.
Sensing that Houston might have found their future catcher, general manager Dana Brown pleaded with Dusty Baker to give the young player more playing time.
Now that Maldonado is out of the picture, Diaz will have an opportunity to establish himself as the starting backstop.
Regarding his offensive ability, there are none to doubt.
The slugger is expected to remain among the top hitters at his position for a considerable amount of time, maybe collecting several Silver Slugger awards in his career.
Diaz is aware that he needs to strengthen his defensive skills.
My biggest issue, I believe, is trying to support the pitching staff. Going to make an effort to support them when they perhaps can’t find who they are,” he said to reporters.
Maldonado, his predecessor, was exceptionally skilled at this.
The seasoned pitcher could see when his teammates were having trouble and needed someone to come out and talk with them to help them get back on track.
Although working with Maldonado on a daily basis last year should have given Diaz some of that information, additional repetitions will be necessary to gain this expertise.
This year, the 25-year-old will receive those reps.
The Astros’ level of success will depend on what he accomplishes with them.
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