How Astros postseason showdown distills into two make-or-break categories
IT COMES DOWN TO THIS
06 October 2023
With the Minnesota Twins set to play the Houston Astros in the ALDS at Minute Maid Park this weekend, two big factors will play a role in the outcome of the series.
Home runs and strikeouts. The Twins have hit the most home runs in the American League this season (tied with the Rangers), but they have also struck out more than any other team in 2023.
However, the Twins have also struck out more batters than any pitching staff in baseball.
Something will have to give, as the Astros have struck out at the lowest clip of any team that qualified for the postseason.
So as you watch this series play out, keep an eye on the strikeouts and dingers as they could be the keys to victory.
Plus, which player will have the better series? Carlos Correa or Jeremy Pena?
Be sure to watch the video above for the full preview of the ALDS!
Editor's note: The Twins have announced Baily Ober will start Game 1, not Joe Ryan as was initially expected.
How Astros could still be in on Bregman, definitely out on another
Jan 20, 2025, 6:05 pm
As we begin another week of free agency, Alex Bregman remains unsigned, but one of the Astros reported targets Anthony Santander has a new home.
Santander has reportedly agreed to a 5-year, $92.5 million contract with the Blue Jays. Many were hoping that the Astros would make a play for the switch hitting power hitter, as he would have provided some serious thump.
Now it appears the Astros will enter the 2025 season with one of the weakness outfields in baseball when it comes to offense.
Speaking of Bregman, Astros manager Joe Espada recently told Fox 26's Nate Griffin that the team is still in contact with Breggy despite General Manger Dana Brown telling the media the team decided to pivot after talks stalled with Bregman's camp.
If there still remains a possibility of Bregman returning, one has to wonder if the Astros reported 6-year, $156 million contract offer is still on the table after the club traded for Isaac Paredes to fill the hole at third base. And if they do make a deal with Bregman, what do they do with Paredes?
Also, now that we know how much money Santander commanded on the open market. Which signing would have benefited the Astros the most? Santander at 5-years, $92.5 million, or Bregman at 6-years, $156 million?
Don't miss the video above as we discuss the possibility of Bregman returning, the Dodgers' absurd free agency (that now involves even more deferred money), Billy Wagner, and much more!
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