Astros Joey Loperfido Talks Experience At First Base, Getting Called-Up

Astros outfielder Joey Loperfido joins The Matt Thomas Show ahead of the series tiebreaker against the Cleveland Guardians on Thursday at Minute Maid Park. After first baseman Jose Abreu was optioned to extended spring training, the Astros officially called-up Loperfido, who was leading the Minor Leagues in home runs with 13. "It kind of caught me off guard" getting called-up, but "it was awesome to share that moment with the guys" of the Sugar Land Space Cowboys. Loperfido made his debut Tuesday against the Guardians, going 1-5 with two RBI and two strikeouts. Loperfido has been in the outfield in his two games with the Astros, but earned some experience at first base in Sugar Land. "Duke was my only offer," and playing first base "was the only way to get into the lineup" as a freshman. When asked if he anticipates playing at first base with the Astros, Loperfido says "I'm going to play wherever the team wants me to play." Loperfido also reveals his real first name, which stadium he looks forward to playing at the most and more.