John

Buck

Buck figures to miss at least a month. Combine this injury with his disappointing play this season (.267-2-38, 687 OPS), and it looks like the Astros may decide to bring back Brad Ausmus for another year.

We’re not big Ausmus fans, but Buck hasn’t done enough this year to justify handing him a starting job and keeping him in the majors as a backup would be a bad idea. Ausmus is a free agent after this season, but the Astros say bringing him back is one of their top priorities. They could have competition from the Padres.

Buck is expected to be a September callup, along with outfielder Colin Porter, infielder Eric Bruntlett, and RHP Kirk Saarloos.

Buck isn’t hitting for average much yet, or drawing walks, or hitting doubles. He does however have four home runs this month and his current four game hitting streak is the longest in his brief stint in the majors.

Buck had all three of the Royals’ extra-base hits. He’s still batting just .233 in 56 games, but he’s making a case to be the team’s starting catcher next year.

Buck also singled and walked. His recent performance is going to result in a Benito Santiago trade this winter. It may also cause the Royals to find a new position for Justin Huber.

Buck is going to be the Royals’ starting catcher next season. He could hit .260 and club 20 home runs in that capacity which would make him a fairly valuable fantasy commodity.

Greinke has had much recent success with veteran catcher Albert Castillo behind the plate (4-0 with a 2.32 ERA over five starts). However, Buck’s recent hitting exploits (four hits and five RBI yesterday) may have garnered him more playing time. “We’ve worked so hard to get this kid to this point. He’s swinging the bat well. And he’s our full-time catcher”, Pena said of Buck last night.

The Marlins are undoubtedly hoping Buck hits for a higher average this season after coming in at .227 last year. Still, that wasn’t out line with what they should have expected. He’ll probably be good for 15 homers and 50 RBI once again, but a big rebound isn’t likely.

Chris Coghlan will start in right field and bat sixth. John Buck will also get the day off. Backup catcher Brett Hayes is batting eighth.