Astros No. 2 prospect Lee called up: 'I completely lost it'

HOUSTON -- Welcome to the Major Leagues, Korey Lee. The Astros’ No. 2 prospect was called up before Friday’s series opener against the Angels to replace Jason Castro, who was placed on the 10-day IL with left knee discomfort.

Lee was informed of the Astros' decision to call him up on Thursday after Triple-A Sugar Land’s game.

“[Triple-A manager] Mickey [Storey] pulled me in after the game yesterday and told me that I wasn't going to catch today,” Lee said. “He didn't really want me to freak out about it, because I usually go every other day and he goes, ‘I think you're going to like this a little bit more, you're actually going into The Show.’ I completely lost it, gave him a hug and embraced everything. It's something that I won't forget.”

The last two days have been a blur for Lee. He flew into Houston Thursday night and only got two hours of sleep, but there is no time to rest for the 23-year-old.

“It’s something that you look forward to your entire life ... and something I never take for granted,” Lee said. “I’m really here and get to do what I have dreamed of.”

The 2019 first-round Draft pick is in his third season with the organization, having fast tracked his way to Triple-A in 2021 after starting that year in High-A. Lee has lived up to his potential during his Minor League career, slashing .258/.329/.413 with a .742 OPS in 216 games. Defensively, he has impressed, with his arm receiving a 70 grade on the 20-80 scouting scale by MLB Pipeline.

Fans excited to see Lee play in Houston may need to temper their expectations, given the uncertainty of how long Castro will be out and starting catcher Martín Maldonado getting the bulk of the work behind the plate.

“He has to be ready to play and pay attention,” Astros manager Dusty Baker said. “He’s got a good guy to learn from in Maldy and will learn the pitchers plus the situations. He will work harder here than he was [at Triple-A]. ... Every day is a work day unless he is not playing.”

Although his role is uncertain, Lee is prepared to contribute at the highest level, having slashed .226/.285/.419 with 10 homers and 40 RBIs in 64 games with Triple-A Sugar Land this season. It is a moment he will make the most of as he joins his former Space Cowboys teammates such as Enoli Paredes.

“It’s pretty awesome to see these guys, especially this team,” Lee said. “It’s a winning culture here and something I want to be part of. It will be something I won’t ever take for granted.”