Time for eggs, grits, and your morning links.
Houston Astros News
Loperfido set to join Astros ahead of series with Guards
Astros begin 3-game series at home against the Guardians (ABC)
How Astros look to jumpstart squad with these much-needed returns, roster moves (Sportsmap)
After slow start, Astros on upswing heading into Guardians series (Deadspin)
Framber Valdez’s return to Astros rotation could start of Houston’s turnaround (CTH)
Four reasons for the Houston Astros’ struggles (YB)
Astros promote Joey Loperfido, clouding Jose Abreu’s role (YB)
AL West News
A’s: Nevin homers in 2nd straight game, A’s beat Pirates 5-1 (NBC)
Halos: Angels score two on wild pitch and throwing error, beat Phillies 6-5 and snap 4-game skid (Chronicle-Tribune)
Blarts: Nationals bring 5-game road win streak into game against the Rangers (FOX)
M’s: Miller’s latest gem sets stage as Mariners work late-inning magic
MLB News
Paul Goldschmidt and the Crowd Below Replacement Level (FG)
Marco Gonzales Is Concerned With Changes in Baseball (FG)
Kepler feeling like himself as Twins’ winning streak reaches eight
In battle of heavyweight bats, O’s edge Yanks in pitchers’ duel
Redrafting the 2014 Draft class, 10 years later
Here is what’s behind Soto’s incredible start