The Houston Astros did not leave the weekend with the result they wanted against Milwaukee, but they did leave with signs of progress—and reinforcements arriving.
Houston opens a three-game series Tuesday at Daikin Park against the Pittsburgh Pirates sitting at 27-34 and five games behind the first-place Seattle Mariners in the American League West. The Astros dropped two of three to Milwaukee but have shown signs of stabilizing after an uneven first two months.
The Pirates arrive in Houston at 32-28 and firmly in the National League Central race. Pittsburgh has played solid baseball over the past two weeks and brings a rotation capable of making every game uncomfortable.
For Houston, the biggest question remains whether recent offensive progress can continue.
Jeremy Peña has continued to produce near the top of the lineup, Cam Smith has looked increasingly comfortable in everyday at-bats, and Christian Walker enters the series coming off another power display after launching his 16th home run Saturday against Milwaukee.
The pitching matchups may ultimately decide the series.
Houston expects to continue with its current five-man rotation, and Wednesday’s projected matchup could become one of the more intriguing games of the homestand if Spencer Arrighetti faces Paul Skenes. Arrighetti has looked increasingly confident since returning to the rotation and recently carried a no-hit bid deep into a start.
The Astros are also getting reinforcements.
Houston activated closer Josh Hader ahead of the Pittsburgh series after the left-hander completed his rehab assignment. Jose Altuve has also continued progressing in his recovery from a left oblique strain, though Houston has not yet committed to a return timeline.
For the Pirates, slowing Houston’s middle of the order will be critical. Yordan Alvarez remains capable of changing a game with one swing even while searching for consistency, and Houston’s offense has shown signs of becoming more dangerous when contributions arrive throughout the lineup.
After dropping two of three to Milwaukee, the Astros have another opportunity in front of them.
The standings remain crowded enough that a strong week could change the picture quickly.
Now they get to try to do it at home—with their closer back in the bullpen.
Heading to Daikin Park soon? Check the Astros promotions schedule before your next game.
Photo credit: Johnmaxmena2 / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 4.0
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