Houston Astros manager Joe Espada joins The Matt Thomas Show following Monday's 4-3 walk-off loss in the 10th inning. The Astros were one out away from taking the first of a three-game series against the Texas Rangers before Josh Smith hit a two-run homer off reliever Caleb Ferguson.
Despite a quality start from Hunter Brown, who allowed one run on three hits and two walks over six innings, the Astros offense continued to struggle, going 1-for-9 with runners in scoring position, including 1-for-7 with the bases loaded. "We've gotten away from who we are as an offense," but "we'll snap out of it," Espada said.
"There's no denying" that "fatigue sets in, both mentally and physically...we have to fight and grind through it."
Pedro Leon was called up from Triple-A Sugar Land and made his Major League debut Saturday in right field. Leon has "the athleticism and the explosiveness," and we "will continue to give him some opportunities."
General manager Dana Brown suggested that the Astros could call up Shay Whitcomb and/or Zach Dezenzo, and Espada relayed that message, saying they are "strongly considering bringing those guys up." Young players "can give some of our veterans" rest, but "you want them to land on their feet" when they get to the Majors.
Yusei Kikuchi made his Astros debut Friday, pitching 5.2 innings and giving up three hits, two earned runs and three walks. Kikuchi is expected to return to the mound for the Astros on Wednesday. "I expect him to go out there and have another strong performance."
Photo: Jack Gorman / Getty Images Sport / Getty Images