Houston Astros vs. Red Sox: Assessing the roster changes for the ALCS

The Houston Astros have a pennant date with the Boston Red Sox. Here are the soldiers being lined up for this all important ALCS battle!

Many did not expect an ALDS sweep of the Cleveland Indians from our HoustonAstros. However, it happened. Now, the spacemen are going up against another 100-plus win team in the Boston Red Sox for the ALCS.

Former HoustonAstrosbench coach, now manager,Alex Cora, has himself quite the stacked team. Nevertheless, so does A.J. Hinch. Once colleagues, now opposing managers, both Cora and Hinch figure to send out the best of the best from their respective teams.

Earlier today, Hinch announced to theHouston Chroniclewho will be on the roster for this pennant series. Two important things are of note in this announcement:

1. Joe SmithandHector Rondonare in.
2. Will HarrisandMyles Straware out.

First, the expected move. It was already long expressed that the bullpen would grow. It happens for all teams during the ALCS. After somerecent controversy with Rondon, one has to assume that fences were mended on that one.

Smith, on the other hand, has been waiting patiently. The off season acquisition will finally get his

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due during the ALCS. Both he and Rondon should keep the relief core of pitching well on their toes against the bean town boys.

Hit or Run?!?

Then, there’s the surprising, but necessary, move to make. More of a sacrifice, if you will.Myles Straw, the speedster who got a shot during the series against the Tribe, will sit during the pennant run against the Sox. Additionally,Evan Gattisremains safe as the alternating DH and pinch hitter withTyler White.

Specifically, this is the move that is like to stir up disgust among some in the fan base. However, I applaud this move by Hinch. As tremendous as Straw is,Tony KempandJake Marisnickhave enough speed to warrant using them as base running insurance for the ALCS.

Also, as Ipredicted on Twitter, despite his post all star break downfall, Gattis is too valuable of a power bat to keep off. He will likely be needed to pinch hit for eitherBrian McCannorMartin Maldonadolate in a game. Or, he could also makes some starts in place ofTyler Whiteagainst the tougher pitchers inChris Saleand/orDavid Price.

All in all, theAstroswill be ready for the Red Sox. It will surely not come easy. Regardless, the spacemen are all systems go, and this will be the better of the two pennant races to watch.

GO ASTROS! #NeverSettle

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