Astros Manager Joe Espada Says José Abreu 'Sounds Like He's Ready To Go'

Manager Joe Espada joins The Matt Thomas Show following the Houston Astros losing 7-9 to the Los Angeles Angels on Monday at Minute Maid Park. Framber Valdez started on the mound and set up the Astros with a 6-1 lead through four innings. However, the fifth inning brought trouble as Valdez gave up seven runs and sent 10 Angels to the plate. Valdez tied his career high for runs allowed with eight, and the Astros would lose 9-7, their largest blown lead of the season. After the game, catcher Yainer Daiz, Valdez and Espada all said Valdez deviated from the game plan and shook Diaz off on some pitches. "It's a learning experience for both guys." When asked why Valdez was left in the game, Espada said "we've been going through our bullpen pretty heavily here" during this homestand, and "it's asking a lot," so starters need to go deep into games. Monday's outing was one of the worst of Valdez's career; however, Espada still has confidence in the starting pitcher's ability. "He has one of the best sinkers in the game." Jose Abreu was demoted to the Florida Complex League on May 1, but during the weekend series against the Milwaukee Brewers, general manager Dana Brown said José Abreu will play a few more minor-league games and could join the Astros in Oakland this weekend. Abreu "has a much cleaner swing" and "he sounds like he's ready to go...I think it will be beneficial" for Abreu to play in a minor-league game. Espada also talks about Kyle Tucker's spot in the batting lineup, Jake Meyer's recent success, getting players back from the injured list and Joey Loperfido's value as a left bat.