It is a long way toward "what it takes," but a contender (even just for a WC spot) needs to at least hold their own against the good teams. The Astros have gone from "terrible" to "middle of the pack." They have shown signs of being better than that, but aren't there yet...
how long has it been since we've played a contender?? we just took 2/3 vs. the Rangers. but there are so many bad teams out there, that you can go a month without hooking up with a "contender." they've taken care of June. they came in around 14 games under .500. they'll be checking out of June about 5-8 games under .500. that's a good month.
Well, we did it. We're finally in 3rd place, 1/2 game ahead of the Brewers. Still best home record in the division, 3rd best in NL, and 5th in the majors.
