Houston Astros: Three things to mull as the team hits stretch run
Thing #2: To be a Verlander Team or not to be?
This is the ultimate question that has plagued Astros fans for some time. Will he or won’t he? Will Justin Verlander be on our team by the end of August? While the chances of that happening are slim to none, it’s only fitting to say it has increased everyone’s interest.
Sure, the Astros have a team that can win the World Series. But with Verlander, our chances go from top three to top one. I do agree that we need to go from win in the future to win now. However, we need to fully prepare for a scenario that Verlander is not on the team.
But first, let’s look at the scenario that he’s on the team.
A Verlander Team
If Verlander is on our roster, expect him to have moments where he would dominate. But also expect moments where he won’t be like himself. This is not the Verlander who started as a rookie in the World Series back in 2006. This is a veteran Verlander who is on the cusp of retirement within the next couple of years. So adding Verlander is a gamble on the Astros.
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Basically, it would be a win-win scenario even if it doesn’t pan out. Verlander’s contract is so huge by the time we get done with him, we’ll use that money to pay our core players and increase our chances to win it all next year or the year after.
A Non-Verlander Team
This seems to be the most likely route we’ll take beginning in September. If you fans want to leave, totally fine. But don’t jump on the bandwagon when they win. That said, if Verlander does not join us, you’ll have to cheer for the team. You have to be encouraging to the players because they know that winning isn’t easy. They truly believe they’re the best team in baseball even if they’re record doesn’t show it.
We have to be like we were in 2004 and 2005 where we shocked baseball by getting to the World Series before. We know we can get there, but it will take more than what happens on the field. You need to be supportive and show the team that you care. Don’t be a hater. Be a true diehard fan like I know y’all are. The last few weeks were tough, but this team can handle the adversity when they play well.