Houston Astros: Why the bench needs to be utilized more
In Conclussion: Put them in, coach! They’re ready to play….TODAY!
The Houston Astros bench are playing far better than what typical bench players would. On any other team, these three would be everyday starters in their respective positions of infield, outfield, and behind the plate at catcher. Essentially, these players are the Astros’ metaphorical insurance policy.
Truth be told, we really don’t want these three playing for any other team. Now, do we?! We want them playing in H-Town for these Astros. In light of that, something has got to give!
Hinch may be doing his best with the lineup constructions. Things have been working out for the spacemen so far to this point. That’s still no excuse to keep benching, arguably, the three best players you have aside from the core four of George Springer, Alex Bregman, Jose Altuve and Carlos Correa. If anything, combining these seven players in the same lineup provide the team the best chances of winning.
Not to take away from the wins the team have already achieved, mind you. All 12 position players bring something really special to the team. The chemistry between them is like nothing ever seen before.
Rest Versus Rust
But the old argument of rest versus rust is still very much alive. And it’s not just for pitchers anymore! Batters and position players face the same dilemma.
You don’t want to have these players getting hot, only to cool them off to the point of a near slump. I reference Wednesday’s game against the Minnesota Twins for this one. Evan Gattis goes 4-for-6, a triple shy of the cycle, and then gets sat out until Sunday against the Texas Rangers, only to go 0-for-5 on the afternoon.
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Hinch has got to do better in getting these three bench players, who should be starters, in that lineup to keep contributing. Consistency is key! They’ve proven themselves time and again already, doing everything to “Earn It!”
Now, Hinch needs to reward them in the form of more playing time! GO HOUSTON ASTROS!!!!