TEXANS ROUNDTABLE

How the Texans can avoid a possible trap game against the Panthers

The Texans catch a break facing the Newton-less Carolina Panthers on Sunday which should lead to victory for Houston.

Next week, Matt Ryan and the Falcons come to town which has some fans wondering if the Texans might be looking ahead to their game against Atlanta.

ESPN 97.5's Fred Faour and A.J. Hoffman debate if this week's game is a trap game for Houston, and if they expect the Texans to come away with a win.

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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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