As we hit Thursday we go to the Lone Star State and preview the Houston Astros. The juggernaut that has steam rolled the American League for several years now fell just short of another pennant last year as they lost the ALCS in seven games to the eventual champion Rangers. While they were still a strong ball club, their end record of 90-72 was one of their “weaker” finishes in this run, which makes one wonder if they are starting to leak oil. Their only splash this offseason was the signing of closer Josh Hader, who will come into an already talented bullpen looking to solidify the back end. Their rotation still features some big names, but it feels like it is in need of an upgrade, one they may look to make at the deadline. This team still figures to be dangerous in the AL, let’s look at the reasons why.

Keys to Success

1. Pena Takes the Next Step: Jeremy Pena became an overnight sensation in the 2022 playoffs after he dominated the first two rounds with an unreal offensive showing. That combined with his impressive 22′ regular season had many thinking 2023 would be a terrific campaign for the youngster. But a sophomore slump put those plans on hold. If he can show more consistency in his game in 24′ Pena will become part of the driving force of this club.

2. Hader Has it on Lock: The Astros have always had strong bullpens during this run of dominance, and that must continue to keep the hopes of a dynasty alive. Josh Hader was signed this winter in hopes of solidifying the ninth inning as he joins a stable of arms that features some brilliant arms. With Raphael Montero, Ryan Pressly, and Bryan Abreu building the bridge to the flame throwing lefty, comebacks will be very tough to come by against this club.

3. JV Returns to Ace Status: At 41 years old, Justin Verlander has had an illustrious career in the big leagues, one that will land him in the Hall of Fame. After a brief stint with the Mets last year, number 35 was sent back to Houston in a trade that was supposed to revitalize him and the Astros chances at winning…but that never quite happened. The legendary righty looked very human last year, and who could blame him, father time is undefeated after all. He’ll need to hold him off one more time for this team to have a real chance at a run.

The Lineup

1. Jose Altuve 2B

2. Kyle Tucker RF

3. Alex Bregman 3B

4. Yordan Alvarez LF

5. Jose Abreu 1B

6. Corey Julks CF

7. Jeremy Pena SS

8. Victor Caratini DH

9. Yanier Diaz C

The Staff

1. Framber Valdez

2. Justin Verlander

3. Christian Javier

4. Jose Urquidy

5. Hunter Brown

Closer: Josh Hader

The Prediction

91 Wins and Wild Card Spot

I expect this Astros team to be solid once again, but as mentioned earlier, I think this core is starting to leak oil. They have been through some absolute battles for years now and that can take its toll. Don’t be fooled by their wild card spot though, Houston will be a tough out in the playoffs as usual.

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