Houston Astros: Five guys who need to step up for team’s playoff push
By T.A. Mock
Tony Kemp, OF
First off this is not an indictment on what Tony Kemp has done this season. He has had a phenomenal season and has hit consistently since joining the big league club a little bit into the season.
Kemp is currently hitting .282/.370/.414 with 24 RBIs, 11 doubles, 8 steals, and even four home runs. That’s pretty impressive for a guy that’s smaller than Altuve. Kemp is also walking nearly as often as he strikes out, which is something this team needs, heck, it’s something every team needs.
Kemp has nearly erased the team’s need in left field. It has been a weak point all year long but, Kemp has been playing like it’s his spot and he should be. He hasn’t become an everyday player yet for the Houston Astros but, he’s playing better than a lot of guys and should be playing more.
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That being said, he has been a bit of a slump recently, like the majority of the team. Kemp’s averaged peaked right before the All-Star break at .304. Since then, he has hit safely in 10 games but has been playing more so his average has dropped to .282.
The Astros really need Kemp to step up, especially right now with the outfield decimated by injuries. If Kemp can keep walking and starting hitting like he was, the Astros will constantly have a guy on for the bigger bats to bring home. It’s time for the Hug Master to take the next step.