Overview
- The Astros kept Díaz out of the lineup for the first two games against the Cardinals, a move Espada on Saturday called a short mental break.
- Hitting coach Victor Rodriguez and second baseman José Altuve worked with Díaz on the field before Saturday’s game to reset his strike-zone plan.
- Coaches say the issue is pitch selection, as Díaz has chased low pitches that turn into routine grounders rather than extra-base contact.
- The early metrics back that up, with a .186/.222/.254 line in 63 plate appearances, a 62% ground-ball rate, a 26% hard-hit rate, and one barrel in 50 balls in play.
- Christian Vázquez has started in Díaz’s place and opened 12-for-30 with six extra-base hits, buying time for a hitter who ranked among the top offensive catchers from 2023–25.