Tellez (back) is starting at first base and batting in the cleanup spot for Monday's series opener against the Astros.
Tellez was absent from the lineup in the Pirates' last two games after leaving Friday's contest against the Diamondbacks due to back spasms. He did pinch hit in Sunday's 6-5 win over Arizona, going 1-for-1 with a double. Since the beginning of July, Tellez has slashed .327/.359/.655 with five home runs and 14 RBI across 59 plate appearances.