Major League Stat of the Week – Max Stassi’s Debut

Max Stassi has been an after thought for the Astros this year.

Max Stassi (Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports)

The other two players that were acquired for Jed Lowrie, Chris Carter and Brad Peacock, both began the season in Houston. Stassi’s Spring Training was interrupted and his season debut was also delayed thanks to a sports hernia. Also, there are lot of bigger name prospects that have gained the focus and intensity of Astros’ fans. Despite his success this season in Corpus Christi, Stassi really was not on that radar. Part of that, can be attributed to success that Jason Castro has been having behind the plate this season.

But, you never can have too many catchers, and that is especially true with Castro’s injury history. Also the fact that Castro bats from the left side while Stassi bats from the right side helps as well.

With Carlos Corporan needing to be placed on the 7-day Concussion DL on Tuesday, Stassi was promoted up to Houston to replace him on the roster. Bo Porter wasted no time getting Stassi in the lineup, and the young catcher wasted no time producing. Here is Stassi’s line from his debut:

2-3, with two singles and one strikeout 

Yes, I know its nothing overly spectacular, but it is still nice to see a player come up to the big leagues and have success in his debut. In 76 games at AA this season, Stassi hit .277 with 17 home runs and 60 RBI’s after hitting .268 with 15 home runs last season.

I don’t want to jump to any conclusions after one game from Stassi, and there is still over a month left in the season, but it is very possible that all three players acquired for Jed Lowrie will be on the Opening Day roster next year.