Astros Manager Joe Espada: Yainer Díaz Is 'Moving In The Right Direction'

The Matt Thomas Show

Houston Astros manager Joe Espada joins The Matt Thomas Show ahead of the second of a three-game series against the St. Louis Cardinals at Minute Maid Park. The Astros took the first game of the series 7-4 on Monday. Espada labeled the victory a "team win" after starting pitcher Justin Verlander had a rough start giving up two home runs in the first inning but received help from the bullpen and offensive production. "We did a lot of things well," and we are looking to "build on that momentum," Espada said. Yainer Diaz homered for the fourth time this season in the eighth inning. This was Diaz's first home run since April 11. Espada says it's been "a process" for Diaz to transition from a backup catcher to a starter as it "requires a lot of patience and discipline" and that he has started "chasing some pitches" leading to a higher ground ball rate; however, Diaz is "moving in the right direction." Kyle Tucker left the game in the third inning after fouling a ball off his right shin, and even though X-rays were negative, Espada says Tucker is "still day-to-day" but is "in good spirits." Espada also discusses Ryan Pressly's recent struggles, Chas McCormick's return to the lineup, Spencer Arrighetti's confidence, updates on Cristian Javier and Jose Urquidy and more.