The Atlanta Braves are set to open a three-game series against the Astros tonight at Minute Maid Park in Houston. A quick glance at the Braves lineup reveals the absence of Jason Heyward who is tied for the team lead in RBIs and leading the team in extra base hits. Gonzalez is opting to go with another right handed hitter in Matt Diaz against Houston lefty J.A. Happ. Diaz in his career is 8 for 15 with a homer against Happ.
Braves fans will recognize a familiar face at the top of the Houston lineup as Jordan Schafer will lead off and play centerfield for the Astros.
Here is a complete look at the starting lineups for tonight's series opener between the Braves and the Astros:
Braves
1. Michael Bourn CF
2. Martin Prado LF
3. Brian McCann C
4. Dan Uggla 2B
5. Freddie Freeman 1B
6. Matt Diaz RF
7. Juan Francisco 3B
8. Tyler Pastornicky SS
9. Brandon Beachy P
Astros
1. Jordan Schafer CF
2. Jose Altuve 2B
3. Travis Buck LF
4. Carlos Lee 1B
5. Brian Bogusevic RF
6. Chris Johnson 3B
7. Jason Castro C
8. Marwin Gonzalez SS
9. J.A. Happ P
For more on this game Braves fans should check out Talking Chop and Astros fans should visit The Crawfish Boxes. For more MLB news and notes head over to Baseball Nation.