I didn’t think the Astros would be able to retain first place until Yordan Alvarez returned. I thought they’d have to fight their way back after his return, especially after the loss of Isaac Paredes. But somehow, despite the many devastating injuries and the checkered return of the injured pitchers, the Astros still have a 1.5-game lead over the Mariners. If those pitchers round into shape for the remaining 40 games of the season, and Yordan finds his All-Star stroke, the outlook for the Astros not only making the playoffs but going deep is looking better all the time.
Perhaps the best is yet to come.
Tonight, the Astros open a three-gamer against the pathetic Rockies. They need a sweep. Will they play down to the competition with their best starters on the mound for the series?
Here’s the Astros’ lineup . Alvarez is clean up.