GOOD PROBLEMS, STILL PROBLEMS

How Astros can navigate 2 of their biggest good-problems of the season

The Houston Astros are coming off a sweep of the Chicago Cubs and Jose Altuve could be joining the team as soon as this Friday.

Once Altuve is ready to return, what should the Astros do with Mauricio Dubon, who currently leads the team in hits, doubles, and runs scored? Should the team use Altuve as a DH and leave Dubon at second base?

Or should Dubon play a utility role for Houston and bounce between the outfield, infield, and DH any given day?

Plus, we discuss if the outfield depth is strong enough moving forward if Michael Brantley's shoulder inflammation continues to be a problem in the long-term.

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The Houston Astros haven't counted on their catchers to deliver much offensive production in recent years, with defensive specialist Martin Maldonado being their primary catcher for the last few seasons. But top hitting prospect Yainer Diaz is making a case to get more playing time behind the plate and at first, based on his ability to swing the bat.

Until recently, he hasn't been able to get any meaningful playing time. Even David Hensley, who was optioned to Sugar Land a few weeks ago, has more plate appearances than Diaz this season.

So how does manager Dusty Baker find more opportunities for Diaz? Should he use him more often as a DH, along with getting time at first base and catcher?

And what does that mean for Jose Abreu, Martin Maldonado, and to a lesser extent, former first round pick and Sugar Land Space Cowboy catcher, Korey Lee?

Plus, considering how good the Astros outfielders have been this year, does the team need to grab another bat before the trade deadline?

Don't miss the video above as we break it all down!

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Listen to The Bench with John Granato and Lance Zierlein weekday mornings on ESPN 97.5 and 92.5 FM.

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