Astros are promoting Myles Straw from the Triple-A roster

Straws may be outlawed in California, but the Astros recall speedy outfielder Myles Straw from Fresno.

The Houston Astros have announced that they are adding outfielder Myles Straw to the MLB roster. Straw is expected to make his MLB debut tonight, after stealing 70 bases between Double-A and Triple-A this year. To make room on the 40-man roster, they move Jandel Gustave to the 60-day DL. With the Fresno Grizzlies still playing in the Triple-A Championship Series, this was not an expected move.

This could indicate that they may keep George Springer out of action for a few games. Last night, following a diving catch attempt, Springer left the game with shoulder soreness. However, in a surprise turn of events, Springer is in the lineup tonight. You know Springer was in AJ Hinch’s office last night doing jumping jacks to prove he’s okay. Hinch did say he would probably be in the lineup last night after the game.

As we saw last night in close games, you may burn more players off the bench to pinch-run. In the ninth inning last night, they pinch-ran Max Stassi for Brian McCann after he walked. Josh Reddick then bounced into a rally-killing double play with Marwin Gonzalez at third base. While it was more likely a double play if someone faster was running, adding another speedy guy off the bench would help.

Speaking of Reddick, he has not been tearing the cover off the ball recently.

The Athletics are only 2.5 games behind the Astros, they need more players for situational roles. That’s what Straw represents, whether it be as a pinch-runner or defensive replacement. We could see some more players recalled once Fresno’s season is over. Including Kyle Tucker.

Recently, some people have discussed if a player like Derek Fisher or Straw would make the postseason roster. That would be more likely if the team decides not to carry the third catcher. Stassi hasn’t played much since McCann returned from surgery.

Between two levels, Straw batted .291 with one homer and 31 RBI, via Baseball-Reference. Power is not his game, but he does have 24 extra-base hits on the season. Speed is his game with those 70 steals and 95 runs scored in AAA. He is most likely the future leadoff guy for the Astros, don’t expect Springer’s power. Straw is not in the lineup tonight and may not get many starts until he proves himself. Another glimpse of the future.