The World Series match-up is finally set, with Houston looking to capitalize on another successful season with a championship and cement the Astros dynasty. In the past six years, the Astros have made the World Series the past four and are looking for the second championship. This veteran group of players has been able to come together and overcome some difficult challenges throughout the season. Still, under the tutelage of manager Dusty Baker, they are back in the World Series.
Astros Free Agency and Early Season Question Marks
Houston’s free agency was nothing special with no insanely big names being signed by the club. They did lose some core, veteran pieces that did impact them and were once the faces of the potential Astros dynasty. They lost Carlos Correa to the Minnesota Twins, Zack Greinke to the Kansas City Royals, and Yimi Garcia to the Blue Jays. However, they were able to resign Justin Verlander and Hector Neris to sure up their pitching staff.
At the beginning of the season, there were a lot of question marks surrounding the team. Questions if Justin Verlander was the same pitcher, and if Carlos Correa could be replaced within the organization. There were also questions on whether teams in their division would be able to surpass them with a revamped Rangers team, and talented Angels and Mariners rosters. The Astros had an incredible first half even though he had a slow start. the Astros showed why how talented they truly were coming into form by going 19-9 in the month of June.
Astros Dynasty at the Trade Deadline and Beyond
At the trade deadline, the Astros were roaring with a 59 -32 at the All-Star break. Instead of being stagnant at the deadline general manager James Click added pieces to supplement what they already have. They added power hitter Trey Mancini from the Orioles, offensive-minded catcher Christian Vazquez, and relief help with Will Smith. All these players made an impact on the team in the second half of the season by going 47-24 in the second half.
The only major loss they had was losing Michael Brantley to an injury for the remainder of the season. With that big injury, they could still overcome it with the talent within their organization, a key component of the Astros dynasty.
Which closer would use to win you the World Series?
Mariano Rivera
Dennis Eckersley
Trevor Hoffman
Billy Wagner
Fracisco Rodriguez
Craig Kimbrel
Astros in the Playoffs
The Astros pitching carried them through the regular season with Justin Verlander leading the charge. Once entering the playoffs, they played the divisional rivaled Mariners who they swept. They then went to take on the Yankees and swept them as well and now wait for the Phillies. This team dominated the Yankees in the ALCS, and their pitching got really hot at the right time. They have also had very timely hitting with contributions throughout the whole lineup.
Dusty Baker is a manager that knows how to get the best out of his players. He knows how to push the right buttons with the bullpen and his deep bench to come out with a World Series victory. The Phillies home field advantage will give them some trouble, but the Astros will come out on top due to their veteran and World Series prowess.
What are your thoughts on the World Series and a potential Astros dynasty? Let us know in the comments below!
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