How Houston Astros molded new-look offense using familiar faces
RUN IT BACK
07 September 2023
Coming into the final month of the season, the Astros were finally starting to sneak into the Top 10 for overall team offense. And after sweeping the Rangers with an offensive explosion, the team is now Top 5 in OPS.
So what's been the difference? Jose Altuve is going bananas at the top of the lineup, and Jeremy Pena and Michael Brantley have made a huge impact as well.
Not to mention what Chas McCormick and Yainer Diaz have done for the team when they get in the lineup.
So what should we expect from the Astros' bats moving forward?
Be sure to watch the video above as we examine how the Astros seemingly have things going at just the right time, and caution how the results from the Rangers series could impact Dusty Baker's future lineups.
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After a light day on Wednesday, the Texans put the pads back on for an intense Thursday practice. One of the newest Texans, CJ Gardner-Johnson has drawn a lot of attention at camp. Which should be expected when a Super Bowl champion safety joins the team.
Earlier in the week, things got a little heated between Gardner-Johnson and tight end Cade Stover, which made headlines. Unfortunately for CJ, he's in the news for a very different reason on Thursday.
According to multiple reports, Gardner-Johnson is dealing with a right leg injury, and was carted off the field.
Next steps: testing, MRI expected for #Texans safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson who is currently inside @The_Greenbrier Sports Performance Center being examined by team medical personnel @KPRC2 https://t.co/PDRwOMACNe https://t.co/9CZXqApWDA
— Aaron Wilson (@AaronWilson_NFL) August 7, 2025
The extent of the injury won't be known until more test are taken. But based on the vibes, this does not sound good.
Head coach DeMeco Ryans gave an update after practice.
#Texans HC DeMeco Ryans called the C. J. Gardner-Johnson injury “heartbreaking.” pic.twitter.com/X2UQP1qK9T
— DJ Bien-Aime (@Djbienaime) August 7, 2025
The Texans are now suddenly thin at the safety position if Gardner-Johnson misses significant time. Safety Jaylen Reed is already out with an injury, per Aaron Wilson" target="_blank">Aaron Wilson, and Jimmie Ward is recovering from foot surgery, and dealing with some legal troubles.
Up next
The Texans head to Minnesota to play their first preseason game against the Vikings this Saturday.
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