Disaster struck during Yainer Diaz's 32nd start as a full-time catcher when pitcher Framber Valdez deviated from convention, sparking chaos and scrutiny within the Astros organization.

By the Numbers
  • Diaz had caught 679 1/3 major-league innings before the incident with Valdez.
  • Diaz has a .681 OPS across his first 181 plate appearances.
  • Diaz caught seven of the first 33 runners attempting to steal against him.
Yes, But

No specific blame was assigned to Diaz for Valdez's actions, with manager Joe Espada emphasizing the pitcher's autonomy in pitch selection.

State of Play
  • Questions arose about Diaz's ability to replicate the intangible qualities of his predecessor, Martín Maldonado, known for his leadership.
  • Diaz's offensive production has dipped, compounded by injuries and the pitching staff's struggles.
What's Next

Diaz continues to adapt to his role as a full-time catcher, aiming to enhance his leadership and defensive skills to match Maldonado's impact.

Bottom Line

The incident highlights the delicate balance for Diaz as he navigates the challenges of his position, striving to develop the leadership qualities and defensive prowess expected of him amidst the Astros' pitching woes.