Brantley hopefully healthy after running out that triple Doesn't seem like Bregman had any set backs (albeit he's clearly not running full strength both on the base paths or on the field). Yuli staying consistent and not showing signs of fatigue Somehow Alvarez' knees have allowed him to play the field a lot Altuve inconsistently consistent but still a weapon. Tucker nonchalantly being a top 5 hitter and top 5 RF in baseball since May... just needs to avoid the stomach bug exacerbated by no gloves and putting his hands where people spit. And most importantly... the back of Carlos Correa has made it to the post-season, where he's performed tremendously in the past despite the back. Overall, this is as good of a result the team could hope for for the lineup going into the post-season. LMJ/Framber/Urquiddy(Garcia) should be able to make playoff quality starts (that don't always go past 5). Greinke/Odorizzi should be able to provide 1-2 innings of quality relief (was really impressed with Odorizzi's regular season relief appearance earlier this year). Stanek/Graveman/Pressly aren't automatic but they're up there with what other teams have to offer. Raley isn't going to be phased, but hopefully used in the right situation. Javier a true wild card. In the end, this team does have a chance to be more versatile than any of the previous Astros playoff teams... mainly due to the relative health of 7 lineup contributors, a stable of bullpen arms that all have high ceilings, and a rotation that while it does not have a HOF ace, has 4 guys who can be expected to be consistently effective against the best of lineups.
Nice summary going into the postseason, Nick. Makes me less apprehensive about watching these games. Javier still worries me. Has not been the same since the MLB crackdown on pitchers.
I don't connect the crackdown with Javier's trouble since having control was an aberration for him, even with sticky stuff available.
As predicted, Dusty has rotated the off days for all regulars (especially the top 7) for these last 3 games. Bregman/Yuli/Yordan off today. Correa off yesterday. Altuve/Tucker/Brantley off Friday. Tucker would have had Friday fully off had Siri not busted the finger. Surprised Brantley playing the field... but I suppose he can't DH every game in the post season.
Very strange for Tucker and Brantley to be in the OF today. I guess I could understand wanting to get Brantley in the field after such a long layoff, but it make so sense whatsoever for Tucker to also be out there in a meaningless game considering Meyers is the DH.
If Brantley goes 4-4 he wins the batting title. If Brantley does not go 4-4, Vlad Jr has to go 6-6 to win it. If they combine for 10-10 I'll jog to Houston naked for Game 1.
