Houston Astros: Five X-Factors to help the team #TakeItBack

6 of 6

Carlos Correa of the Houston Astros (David Santiago/Miami Herald/TNS via Getty Images) /

Carlos Correa, SS

The final X-Factor in order to #TakeItBack is Carlos Correa. This one may seem odd considering his pedigree as a first overall pick, All-Star, and former rookie of the year. However, the Houston Astros ultimate success in 2019 will fill on Correa’s back, literally.

2018 started off strong for the young star but it was quickly derailed due to a back injury that lingered throughout the remainder of the season and severely hampered him when he was able to play, which wasn’t often.

More from House of Houston

He easily had the worst year of his career in 2018, posting a .239 batting average over 110 games with on 15 home runs and 65 RBIs. All three were career lows. On top of those, he just didn’t look right. His swing was off and he wasn’t able to whip the ball around the field, both with the bat and his arm like he was able to in the past.

However, Spring Training has shown the old Correa, not the shell that took the field in 2018. He is back at making incredible plays with his glove and arm on defense. The ball is also regularly coming off his bat 15-20 mph faster than it was during the regular season in 2018.

Correa is a legitimate MVP talent as he can affect every facet of the game. He is an incredible talent and the Houston Astros deeply missed his production last year even though they won a franchise high 103 games. If they truly want to win another championship, Correa will play a key role in that process.

Next. Top 30 players in Astros franchise history. dark

The Houston Astros have legitimate championship aspirations once again this year. Guys like Verlander, Cole, Jose Altuve, and Alex Bregman will obviously play roles but the team needs these five guys to ensure they can #TakeItBack.

Home/Houston Astros