Houston Astros: McCann surgery unfortunate but Astros’ built to overcome
The Houston Astros are about to lose their starting backstop, again. This makes it the second time in a thirty day period.
Brian McCann is a perennial part of the Houston Astros. Since he came over last season, his style of game calling and work with the pitching staff has been unmatched in the league.
Unfortunately, the team has to be without his services for about the next month and a half.
According to a tweet sent out first by Ken Rosenthal, Brian McCann is flying back to Houston to undergo surgery on his right knee. Skipper A.J. Hinch confirmed this shortly after Rosenthal. The projected timetable is 4-6 weeks. However, Hinch did not specify any amount of time.
Unsurprisingly, Max Stassi will take over starting catching duties for the time being. Tim Federowicz has been recalled from AAA Fresno, and Corpus Christi catcher, Jamie Ritchie, received a promotion to AAA. All corresponding moves take effect immediately following the news.
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Realistically, Stassi was the logical choice to take over starter for multiple reasons. Namely, he has a similar offensive prowess to McCann. Although, this season has seen Stassi do significantly better in the batter’s box.
Additionally, Stassi has a really good glove. Admittedly, his overall defense is middle of the pack in the league. Nevertheless, it’s nothing to sneeze at. Just like Brian McCann, Stassi gets almost as much credit as the veteran does. In fact, many of Stassi’s advanced metrics exceeds Brian McCann on the season, even if just by a little bit. Again, all due respect intended for the BMac!
Tim Federowicz should also be a big help as the backup. His stats from AAA Fresno have been very promising. He still has some work to do to get the bat going. Still, it will be really good having him back.
Overall, the loss of Brian McCann is heartbreaking. But, even when a general like BMac gets sniped, his nearest in command are at the ready to keep the battle to defend the title going. It truly shows further of the depth of these Houston Astros.
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We here at HOH wish Brian McCann a very speedy and painless recovery, as the team tries to get back to their winning ways in Arlington the next couple of days. Fortunately, the Houston Astros are built to overcome an injury. Have a happy 4th!