After the 1999 season, Eusebio became a free agent for the first time. In November of that year he signed a 2-year $2.4 million contract with the Astros and was projected to be the starting catcher. Eusebio started opening day, but as the season wore on his playing time was cut due to his low batting average and the Astros' commitment to new catcher Mitch Meluskey. Despite this slow start, Eusebio's hitting picked up in the second half of the season. His hot streak culminated on August 28, 2000, when he hit safely in his 24th consecutive game, setting an Astros' record. This accomplishment brought him the most recognition of his career, but just a few days later Eusebio's season ended when he suffered a dislocated shoulder after a headfirst fall over the Astros' dugout railing. Shortly afterwards, Eusebio had successful surgery to repair the injury.