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Astros broadcaster Todd Kalas to miss beginning of season after positive COVID-19 test result

Kalas said he feels fine and is looking forward to returning to the booth as soon as possible.

HOUSTON — Astros TV broadcaster Todd Kalas will not be covering games to begin the upcoming baseball season after he tested positive for COVID-19.

Kalas is asymptomatic and is quarantining at home, the team said.

In Kalas' place, longtime Houston sportscaster Kevin Eschenfelder will serve as the club’s play-by-play broadcaster alongside Geoff Blum. The two will be joined by sideline reporter Julia Morales.

The Astros start the season with a six-game homestand starting Friday against the Mariners. They then will host the Dodgers at the beginning of next week. Houston then will travel to Los Angeles to take on the Angels for the first road game of the 60-game season.

Here is a statement from Kalas:

“Last week, in an abundance of caution, I voluntarily took a COVID-19 test. I felt great but wanted to ensure I was being extra cautious as we got close to the start of the season. Much to my shock and disappointment, it returned positive. While I am asymptomatic, I am following MLB’s health and safety protocols and will miss the start of the season. I encourage everyone to stay safe and take precautions. I look forward to returning to the booth as soon as possible.”

The team wished Kalas a speedy recovery.

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