Joe Espada 'Confident' Yusei Kikuchi Gives Astros An 'Opportunity To Win'

The Matt Thomas Show

Houston Astros manager Joe Espada joins The Matt Thomas Show following a trade with the Toronto Blue Jays for left-handed starter Yusei Kikuchi. Rookie starter Jake Bloss was scratched ahead of Monday's 5-3 loss to the Pittsburgh Pirates at Minute Maid Park. At the game's conclusion, it was announced that Bloss, along with rookie outfielder Joey Loperfido and No. 13 prospect Will Wagner, were being sent to the Blue Jays for the 33-year-old Kikuchi. "It's not easy. It's part of the business," Espada said. "We really need this injection of someone who we've seen for years get deep in games, save our bullpen, and give us an opportunity to win every day." While Kikuchi hasn't been consistent most of this season (0-4 with a 7.75 ERA and 1.57 WHIP in his last eight starts), Espada believes the Astros coaching staff can help Kikuchi be more efficient. "I'm confident we're going to make those adjustments and make him a better pitcher." Espada also says Justin Verlander and Luis Garcia are both making a "huge step forward" in returning from injury and comments on the Astros preparing for the last stretch of the season. "This is when you start seeing the character and makeup of your team."