"He couldn't be any better" - Joe Espada hails Yusei Kikuchi after pitcher silences doubters with franchise record performance on Astros return
The Houston Astros acquired Japanese left-handed Pitcher Yusei Kikuchi and he had an impressive debut for the team. He tied a franchise record with eight consecutive strikeouts against the Rays. Astros manager Joe Espada praised Kikuchi after his dominant performance.
After the game against the Tampa Bay Rays, Espada discussed Kikuchi’s performance, emphasizing how he managed to confound the Rays’ hitters.
"He was mixing very well, he slid more in the zone. He saw a lot of chases and then the change-up, I thought, was a game-changer for me. Because that’s what we want him to do, like change more in the zone, and it was a really, really good pitch and that just makes his fastball a much better pitch,” said Joe Espada. "He couldn’t be any better,” he added.
Espada highlighted Yusei Kikuchi’s flawless execution, strategic approach, and effectiveness of varied pitch selection, which kept the Rays’ hitters off balance.
“He sat there right down the stairs, you know, he had his notes like a little boxer, head down. He was locked in, it was pretty intense. I like it, love it.”
The Astros manager also talked about Kikuchi’s mid-game flexibility, his ability to adapt and execute his game plan, and mentioned his skill and intelligence as a player.
Kikuchi’s performance is especially noteworthy given the pressure and scrutiny that came with his return. Espada's comments not only highlight Kikuchi's ability to handle high expectations but are also a testament to his resilience and talent.
Yusei Kikuchi dominates Rays in Astros debut
Yusei Kikuchi made an impressive debut for the Houston Astros, tying the franchise record by having eight consecutive strikeouts against the Tampa Bay Rays on Friday. Acquired in a trade from the Toronto Blue Jays, Kikuchi showcased his prowess on the mound by delivering a standout performance.
His initial fastballs were capitalized on by the Rays for a leadoff double and two home runs at the start of the game. However, the Japanese pitcher quickly adjusted alongside veteran catcher Victor Caratini, shifting to a mix of sliders and changeups. This strategic move allowed Kikuchi to retire 16 out of 20 batters faced afterward.
In his debut with five and two-thirds innings pitched, Kikuchi struck out 11 batters, something no Astros pitcher has done on his debut since Gerrit Cole in 2018. His performance indeed brought him a standing ovation and thus explained why the Astros were willing to bring him on board.