Houston Astros: Three keys to an ALDS series win over the Rays

Key #1: Pitching workhorses

We already know who will start Games 1-3 with Justin Verlander, Gerrit Cole, and Zack Greinke. Combined, they have a 1.69 ERA in 23 innings against the Rays this season. Those three guys will have to relive their expectations for the season.

But there are a few issues that go into the postseason. Some of the best pitching rotations in history have been torched in the past. The Braves pitching core of Tom Glavine, Greg Maddux, and John Smoltz have been bested before. The 1971 Orioles, which had four 20-game winners, lost in the World Series. Then, of course, the Detroit Tigers with Verlander, David Price, and Max Scherzer didn’t get a win in the first round of the playoffs.

We know how much of a postseason resume Verlander has. Of the trio, Verlander has had the most success with two wins against the Rays with a 0.73 ERA in 12.1 innings and 13 strikeouts (might’ve been more had it not been for the ejection). But Cole and Greinke will need to step up their game with Tampa. Last season, Cole went 1-1 in the postseason with a 3.46 ERA, which was better than his stints with the Pirates.

Tampa did have success against Cole, who went 1-1 this with a 3.55 ERA and 24 strikeouts. Meanwhile, Greinke’s one start against the Rays lasted 5.2 innings allowing six runs (five earned: 2.99 ERA) and eight strikeouts. But his postseason resume will have to change after he enters with a 4.03 career ERA.

It’s for sure the Houston Astros have the best rotation around. For Tampa to beat us, they’ll need to get through this trio and hold down an offense that by name and on paper can provide an early Halloween scare.