COMING SOON

Here's why Astros rookie phenom's arrival just became imminent

Astros prospect Drew Gilbert is performing well for the Corpus Christi Hooks and Astros GM Dana Brown believes that if Gilbert continues to improve, he has an opportunity to be in the big leagues soon.

“When you take a college player from the SEC, that’s where most of the Major League players come from in the college ranks,” said Brown. “If he’s on top of his game, he’s got a chance to be in the big leagues quick.”

That doesn't necessarily mean he's ready to play for the Astros, but reaching Triple-A this season doesn't feel like a stretch.

But what about the big league roster? Is there any chance Gilbert could be a September callup for the club?

ESPN Houston's Joel Blank doesn't think it's out of the question, especially with Michael Brantley's recent setback and the team's reluctance to pick one center fielder to start every day.

Plus, the guys discuss how an injury or a trade for starting pitching could create a path for Gilbert to play with the big league club sooner rather than later.

Watch the video above to see the full conversation!

Listen to The Killer B's with Joel Blank and Jeremy Branham weekdays from Noon-3 PM on ESPN 97.5 and 92.5 FM.

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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!

Subscribe to SportsMapHouston on YouTube if you enjoy the videos.

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

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