Brian Bogusevic: Astros 'Know That Kikuchi Can Handle The Workload'

Brian Bogusevic, former Astros outfielder and Space City Home Network analyst, joins Next Up after the Houston Astros avoided the sweep against the Pittsburgh Pirates with Wednesday's 5-4 victory.

During the series at Minute Maid Park, the Astros traded right-hander Jake Bloss, outfielder Joey Loperfido and infielder Will Wagner to the Toronto Blue Jays for left-handed starter Yusei Kikuchi prior to the MLB trade deadline. With multiple starters on the injured list, the Astros needed depth and did not hold the bargaining position of being able to walk away. "They had to make a move," and the Astros "know that Kikuchi can handle the workload," Bogusevic said.

Kikuchi had a great start to the season, but is now holding a 4.75 ERA and 1.34 WHIP. "He's got good stuff...he's underperforming what his stuff is right now."

While Kikuchi hasn't shown flashes of success as of late, Bogusevic is confident the Astros staff can help increase his efficiency. "Things can change simply by attacking hitters in a different way...we have a guy that has the tools; they're just not being deployed properly."

Bogusevic also previews the Astros hosting the Tampa Bay Rays as the offense attempts to climb out of a recent "lull."