Espada 'Considering' Victor Caratini At 1B To Keep Bat In Astros Lineup

Houston Astros manager Joe Espada joins The Matt Thomas Show following Monday's 5-4 victory over the Boston Red Sox.

Yusei Kikuchi allowed three runs on six hits with seven strikeouts in over five innings, continuing his streak of positive performances since being traded to the Astros. "I was excited when we got him," Espada said. "We knew that we could help [Kikuchi] and make him better."

The Astros defense struggled early, committing a season-high four errors; however, the offense would rally and secure the win with a walk-off solo home run from Yainer Diaz. Following a pair of days off, Diaz "made some adjustments to his swing," and "everything has come together for him."

Victor Caratini also contributed to the Astros comeback win, recording three hits with one RBI. "[Caratini] has been a big piece," and "I've been considering" playing him at first base "to keep his bat in the lineup."

Rookie Shay Whitcomb has temporarily taken over at third base since Alex Bregman has been out for four straight games due to swelling in the back of his right elbow. Bregman is "going to want to be in there again today," and "he could be an option for today...just depending on how it feels."