Houston Astros Season 2017: Three Things To Watch Out For
What To Worry About
George Springer will pick up right where he left off but in center field, his natural position while Reddick will man the right side of the field.
Will Jake Marisnick finally start hitting a ton? That remains to be seen — he batted .213 for in ST — but we know he’ll continue with the incredible defensive effort as he always has.
It’ll be interesting to see how this new configuration will work.
Jose Altuve will be as great as he always is, likely racking up another batting title to his credit but I certainly worry about Carlos Correa who has seen a decline that I hadn’t expected.
His .192 batting average this past March was nothing to write home about so I’m hoping that he’s primed to make a comeback.
Houston Astros
Marwin Gonzalez will continue to be the utility man in the infield, doing whatever he is asked well.
As far as the Astros’ bullpen, Ken Giles, Luke Gregerson, Will Harris, Tony Sipp, Michael Feliz and Brad Peacock will fill out that unit along with Devenski/Gustave.
Gregerson has looked terrific all Spring and especially during the WBC.
He has made his case to be the closer and that might happen if Giles hasn’t proven he’s ready to take over that role.
Harris will be fine and although Sipp’s still in a funk, I think he’ll get out of it.
Besides, he’s a lefty reliever in a thin market to begin with so we’ll just have to roll with the punches.
I liked what I saw of Feliz last season toward the end and this guy can throw some nasty stuff, I’m glad there was a spot for him.
Peacock has been marred by injury for quite some time and was good to finally see him healthy.
He was out of options so it was make-or-break for him to make this team.
He did what he had to do and now he’s back in uniform.
Next: Four Reasons Why Not To Put Our Young Core At DH
With all things considered, I think the Astros can really rake things in this season.
If they can prove than beat the Texas Rangers on a regular basis, I don’t see any reason why we shouldn’t take the division with a deep run into the playoffs.
Beyond that, I’ll reserve judgement and hope for the best.
I’m excited, you should be excited and the whole damn city should be excited!
It’s time — we’ll be in this together until the fall so all aboard as this train is about to march out of the station!
Go Astros!