How Astros infield domino effect could pay dividends for revenge tour
BANK ON IT!
12 February 2024
The Houston Astros now how their middle infield set for the foreseeable future, with Jose Altuve locked up for six more years and Jeremy Pena under contract through 2027.
Jose Abreu is still under team control for another two seasons, and we all know Alex Bregman could be playing his last year in an Astros uniform.
And let's face it, even if Yainer Diaz doesn't take a step forward this season, there's no way he'll hit worse than Martin Maldonado. So as we examine the infield over the next few years, Jeremy Pena looks like the biggest question mark.
Will he continue to struggle with the bat like last season, or will he bounce back and regain the power he showcased in 2022? Pena is very tough to predict. He went from World Series MVP to a player that had to be pinch hit for in the ALCS last season.
Pena has been working on a new swing this offseason that he's excited to unleash in 2024. Which got us wondering, if he finds his power stroke again, is that enough to say that he had a bounce back season?
When looking at the numbers, the simple answer is yes. He improved his on-base percentage and batting average in 2023. If he can continue to build on that and get back to swatting over 20 homers a season, the Astros infield will be in good shape.
Plus, we all hope Jose Abreu can return to form as well. After a lackluster regular season, Abreu really got things going in the playoffs. Many believe rest was a big part of his postseason success.
If he gets off to a slow start, should the Astros consider platooning him from time to time to get the best version of Abreu?
While many people saw the Astros trade for Trey Cabbage as a left-handed bat that can play the outfield, there's another layer to his game.
Cabbage played over 50 games at first base in the minors last season. So he could be an option with some serious power that could fill in at first.
Finally, if the Astros do move on from Alex Bregman, could Mauricio Dubon be an option to take his place? Certainly he'll never be the hitter Bregman is, or walk nearly as much. But he could be a serviceable option while the Astros look for a permanent Bregman replacement.
Don't miss the video above as we break it all down.
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In a move that sent shockwaves through the NBA, the Houston Rockets have pulled off a blockbuster trade for Kevin Durant, acquiring the superstar forward from the Phoenix Suns. The deal comes at a steep price—Houston parts ways with Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks, the 10th pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, and five second-rounders.
In this episode, we react to the stunning trade and break down what it means for the Rockets’ future. Is parting with Green and Brooks too much, or a necessary step toward contention? We examine the risks tied to Durant’s age and injury history, and what losing a defensive anchor like Brooks means for a young, evolving roster.
We also dive into what KD brings to the table—his scoring ability, his contract situation, and whether he can truly be "the guy" on a team that’s looking to take the next step. And if he can’t stay healthy come playoff time… was the gamble even worth it?
The Rockets just pushed all their chips in. The question now: did they bet on the right hand?
Be sure to watch the video below as ESPN Houston's John Granato and Lance Zierlein share their thoughts on the newest addition to the Rockets.
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