Houston Astros Shaking Things Up; Tony Kemp Called Up

The Houston Astros have decided to shake things up after Sunday’s second straight blown loss. The Astros announced that they have optioned Preston Tucker to AAA and DFA’d Erik Kratz. Evan Gattis will rejoin the team on Tuesday and become the team’s backup catcher.

Roster moves: Gattis recalled, will replace Kratz on roster; Tucker optioned to AAA, corresponding move tomorrow.
— Houston Astros (@astros) May 15, 2016

That was yesterday’s news. While many speculated on who the Astros may call up for their second open spot, James Price (AstrosFuture.com) has reported the Astros will give Tony Kemp the call to the Majors.

Tony Kemp to be called up by #Astros. Scheduled to join team in Chicago, according to sources.
— Astros Future (@AstrosFuture) May 16, 2016

Let’s first get to the catching news. Kratz was terrible in his time in Houston, going 2-for-29 with one of those hits being a bunt single. It was the obvious move for the team as they prepared Gattis for backup catching duty. Jason Castro will continue to draw the majority of the starts with Gattis likely catching a game or two a week.

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It will be interesting to see how Gattis fares behind the plate. With the Atlanta Braves, Gattis was average at catcher, but it’s clear the Astros prefer defense and receiving from that position, which will be the ultimate factors to Gattis’ playing time behind home plate.

Sending down Preston Tucker was a bit of a shock. However the 25-year old has been scuffling of late (now a .176 BA for the season) and the Astros need a spark.

That’s where Tony Kemp comes in. With Tucker struggling and Carlos Gomez somehow having a worse season, the Astros need someone in the outfield to get on base. The 24-year old Kemp hit .298 at AAA Fresno with a .410 OBP. At 5’6″, Kemp has a bit some Jose Altuve in him and should see everyday at-bats in the outfield.