How Dusty Baker plans to attack Mariners in must-win game for Astros

GAME PLAN

How Dusty Baker plans to attack Mariners in must-win game for Astros
Michael Brantley will start in left field in the finale against Seattle. Composite Getty Image.

It all comes down to this. If the Astros are able to come away with a victory on Wednesday night, they control their own destiny moving forward. But if they fall to the Mariners, they will likely have to sweep Arizona and get some help from the Rangers to have a chance at the postseason.

The Astros are currently a half game up on Seattle, but a loss tonight would push Houston out of the final wild card spot and give the Mariners a leg up.

How will Dusty deploy his hitters in the biggest game of the season?

Tonight's lineup is missing several key pieces to the Astros' offense. Chas McCormick and Yainer Diaz. McCormick might be out of the lineup due to getting hit by a pitch on Tuesday night. And Diaz's only shot at playing was hitting DH, with Martin Maldonado catching for Framber Valdez as he has done all season.

In what could be a silver lining, Michael Brantley has returned to play left field, with Yordan Alvarez sliding over to the DH spot. And once again Dusty Baker is sticking to his guns with Jose Abreu hitting 5th once again.

Let's hope Framber Valdez has one of his classic performances, because runs could be tough to come by if the top 4 guys in the lineup don't come through with big performances.

Let's go get this one! Go Astros!


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Can the Texans overcome their injuries this week? Composite Getty Image.

ESPN insider, DJ Bien-Aime shares his thoughts on the amount of injuries the Texans are dealing with and how that could prevent them from securing a victory over the Packers this weekend.

The Texans may have to start their third string linebacker this week, Neville Hewitt, if both Azeez Al-Shaair and Henry To'oTo'o are unable to play.

Plus, corner Kamari Lassiter is not likely to play in a matchup against several quality Green Bay receivers.

Be sure to watch the video above for the full discussion!

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