If they are hanging around while missing so many guys they have a shot if they make the playoffs with a relatively healthy roster.
The options just keep narrowing. While the Astros are quietly more optimistic about their rotation than two weeks ago - they now lose their best glove and a solid hitter. At some point Seattle is going to go on a run. My fear is we “hang around” and are 5 out at deadline and spend assets to get a rental and miss playoffs again. That is a worse possible outcome IMO. I would rather lose 100 games and have a clear direction than win 80.
Couldn't agree more. This is a great opportunity to choose a direction. I still think this division and the AL is very very winnable. But there must be a healthy lineup, rotation, and bullpen or else what's the point. I think the CBT is still a major obstacle. IMO it is very unlikely Crane goes over it for a 3rd consecutive season (and based on penalties I don't want him to) but there is very little room to maneuver under it and everyone who is making any kind of money is either now crucial or worthless to trade. That makes it very unlikely that they move a guy like Walker or Paredes. Or that they pick up an impact player/pitcher without jettisoning other payroll. Hunter is still the key. They need to be very very confident he will be able to return in June without bigger risk of reinjury. Without that they need to take this as a sign to at least reload for 2027
If Shewmake hits another homer today off Glasnow, get ready for the #WhyNotShewmake social media campaign
Astros have probably had a top 5 MLB team since 2017 -- this season and last year included. The lost draft picks and bad contracts both hurt, but despite that, injuries have been the true demise. We don't have Dodger Money to reload with new MVP and CYA candidates every year. Maybe the medical staff plays a negative role, maybe the spin rate philosophy does, but the team no doubt mishandled Javier in '23 during the season, after the contract. All the injuries this season, this early, has to be a record.
