BREAKING: The Houston Astros are facing a critical situation as they place catcher Victor Caratini on the concussion injured list as of today, July 12, 2023. This urgent move leaves the AL West leaders in a precarious position behind the plate, with backup catcher Yainer Diaz listed as day-to-day due to a left wrist injury.
Diaz sustained his injury during the eighth inning of Sunday’s tight 3-2 loss against the Baltimore Orioles, when an errant pitch from Craig Kimbrel struck him. As the team scrambles to fill the void, the Astros have recalled catcher César Salazar from Triple-A Sugar Land, who started in Wednesday night’s game against the Colorado Rockies.
This sudden roster shake-up comes on the heels of Caratini taking a foul ball to the mask during the ninth inning of Tuesday’s 6-1 defeat to Colorado. Caratini has been a solid contributor this season, batting .262 with a career-high 43 RBI and matching his career-best with 11 home runs across 95 games.
Meanwhile, Diaz has also made significant contributions, posting a batting average of .257 with 18 homers and 55 RBI in 116 games this season. The immediate impact of their injuries could pose serious challenges as the Astros aim to maintain their position at the top of the division.
The Astros’ management, while expressing concern for their players, remains focused on the upcoming challenges. The team is monitoring Diaz’s condition closely, and his status will be updated as more information becomes available.
Fans are encouraged to stay tuned for further updates as the Astros navigate this injury crisis during a crucial stretch of the season. The emotional stakes are high, and the team’s resilience will be tested in the coming days.
