Unless the Astros steamroll the Twins, it is all but certain that Dusty Baker decisions will matter and possibly/probably be second guessed. Call your shot on key decisions and moves, and let’s see if we can out manage the manager (instead of 2020 hindsight). 1. McCullers is being held to “start” Game 3 because he will pitch 3-4 innings to “close” game 1 or 2 if we are ahead. It is no accident that McCullers spent all season working on his full arsenal, but has turned the page back to a heavy curveball usage. 2. Hit kyle tucker 3rd in Game 1. He and George have been the most dynamic hitters by far and we need him to get the most ABs possible, particularly against Maeda who has been murder on righties. We need the longball to score and after Springer, Tucker is our biggest threat. Plus, on the small ball side, Tucker has shown good speed and we may need a steal in a key spot. I know this isn’t going to happen, but I’d do it. 3. Use Ryan Pressly in a key spot in the 6, 7 or 8th inning, especially if we are tied or winning. We know what his strengths are - he dominates lefties. If we need to get Kepler, polanco, Rosario or arrayed in a key spot, pull the trigger. 4. Manage game 1 like it is a game 7
It wasn't that long ago that the Astros were having to play a 1 game, winner-take-all, wild card game. At least this is a 3 game series.
1. Keep Abraham Toro out of the lineup. 2. Start Urquidy in game 2. Have Framber available for bullpen use.
Toro shouldn’t ever see an AB unless Aledmys Diaz gets hurt. Yeah, I have no idea about game 2 but I’m guessing it’s going to be Framber because he misses more bats. I love how Urquidi attacks the zone, and his performance last post season was clutch. But Minny can hit bombs and a cheap homer or two could be fatal. Urquidi is great vs lefties with his changeup, but Im not sure which of them is better against lefties.
All considered the Astros have 4 pitchers I feel pretty good about. Greinke/Framber should be no discussion for games 1 and 2. Bad McCullers this season has been really bad, I would feel safer with Urquidy if it comes to a game 3. Javier should be our first option out of the pen if a game is close. I fully suspect the offense continues to embarrass itself and our postseason is short.
Is it still the bullpen if the relievers are starters? If Greinke and Urquidy can get the ball to Javier and Valdez with the lead, Javier and Valdez are going to have saves provided Dusty doesn't get cute and put Pressly in. Granted, the offense looked beat to hell so the getting a lead might be a problem.
My confidence levels: 1. Javier 2. Urquidy 3. Valdez. 4. Greinke 5. McCullers That's not gonna happen unfortunately. And we are likely going to learn some hard lessons. But let's see what happens. I really hate the 3 game series format especially for the division winners. It's torture. But the point is it gives us a chance. We match up with the Twins fairly well. And with more experience, we should hold the advantage.
Have Urquidy just come in pumped up throwing strikes... should be able to get through 3 and they won't even know what hit them.
I agree except I wish Astros had a different manager who could be trusted to tell the difference between real good and dumb luck.
Maeda has looked really good. But we own this guy. I'm not too worried. Greinke might be slow enough to keep everything in the park. Maeda is basically solo home runs or get fooled. We've got to go yard on him a few times.
I think Click wants to use Framber to come in with a lead and then close that **** out whether it is 3 innings or 6. If Astros are losing Game 2, Framber will be saved for Game 3 and start Game 3 or at very minimum pitch 4-5 innings in relief.
Urquidy and Javier (if he doesn't give up homers) both are potentially nails in the pen. I still fear Pressly given the ball to close.
