We are just a few days away from opening day and the Astros manager Dusty Baker still has an important decision to make: who will be the backup catcher…
The Astros have two young prospects, Korey Lee and Yainer Diaz, and both are doing well in spring training posting an .827 OPS and .892 OPS respectively , making this decision more difficult for Baker. Both prospects are in the Astros top 10 for the system with Diaz being a consistent #2 behind Hunter Brown.
Based on Dusty Baker’s decisions last year, Korey Lee could be the favorite to win the job. It appears Baker trusts more in Lee’s glove and in a position like backup catcher, defense is going to be very important. Korey Lee started 7 games at catcher at the big league level last year. Diaz was called up but only saw 2 innings at catcher.
They’re both good and young players that have an bright future ahead, and it’s possible both of them could be on opening day roster with the injuries to Jose Altuve and Michael Brantley. Either way, the Astros will be in a good spot at the backup catcher position.
Be sure to subscribe to receive weekly updates on the Astros minor league system. Also be sure to follow on Twitter, @AstrosFuture, and like on Facebook, facebook.com/AstrosFuture.
