Astros Place Catchers Caratini, Diaz on Injury Lists

The Houston Astros have placed catcher Victor Caratini on the seven-day concussion injured list after he took multiple foul tips to the mask, forcing the team to rely on backup catcher César Salazar. Yainer Diaz, the other primary catcher, is day to day with a left wrist injury sustained when he was hit by a pitch, adding to the team's catching challenges. Salazar, recalled from Triple-A Sugar Land, started behind the plate against the Colorado Rockies, as the Astros face a critical depth issue at catcher amid their pursuit of the postseason. Caratini had been a consistent offensive contributor this season with a .262 batting average, 11 home runs, and 43 RBIs, while Diaz also provided solid production with a .257 average and 18 home runs. The Astros also rested second baseman Jose Altuve for a day, with Mauricio Dubón filling in at second base, while star slugger Yordan Alvarez returned to the lineup as designated hitter. The injuries have created a sense of urgency for Houston, highlighting the importance of Salazar's role during this stretch of 13 games without an off day.