The Houston Astros are making adjustments to their lineup. Regular catcher Yainer Diaz is back in the lineup.
Jose Altuve is heading back into the field, allowing Yordan Àlvarez to DH.
This shift moves Isaac Peredes off second base and creates an outfield spot for Taylor Trammell.
McCullers’ Potential Start
Lance McCullers is scheduled to start for Houston. However, his injury history makes his start uncertain.
Houston hopes he starts, given the current state of the Astros’ pitching.
Mariners’ Pitching Strategy
The Mariners will start Luis Castillo, who appears to be in good form through his first two starts. Castillo has experienced some bad luck with BABIP in his last start.
He is increasing his use of four-seamers and sliders while decreasing his sinker and changeup usage. This adjustment leads to more strikeouts but also increases the risk of damage when batters make contact.
This approach could prove effective when pitching at T-Mobile Park in April.
Crawford at the Top
J.P. Crawford will again lead off the lineup as Brendan Donovan remains out. Donovan is still recovering from an illness.
The Astros’ lineup shuffle gave two players the day off.