I know every series is it’s own series, but considering the Astros history with hot NL East teams, this is rather ominous….
Or the 1990s Braves. I'm still confident and feel like the Astros are in great position. Phillies definitely are hot and need to be taken seriously. One game at a time.
Hopefully the layoff cools off some of their hitters. They are a good team but Houston will be rightfully favored when they advance.
Phillies are playing with house money -- they barely squeaked into the playoffs and their fans were miserable in the first half of this season. They are a dangerous team, no doubt, but the Astros have an enormous edge in pitching (starters and bullpen) and defense. The Phillies have a very deep lineup with no easy outs, and several of their players have played well above expectations in the last couple of series. They may have peaked. Astros have the experience edge as well. And homefield. Heavy advantage Astros... but in baseball, that gives you at most a 60-65% chance of winning. Which I'll gladly accept!
The celebration song was funny in the locker room. Those Phillies are together. Like that we are playing a big market team, even if that market is basically a mashup of NY and NJ, and PA. It will get a few more eyes. That Harper Homerun was sick. It's rare that you can see it coming. And that was coming. He's been in a zone for long time. BUT. It our turn tonight. Let's go!
How is Philly pitching? I know nothing about their squad. Starters and bullpen - strengths/weaknesses?
