Opinion: Are the Houston Astros the worst team in baseball?
May 4, 2014; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Astros right fielder George Springer (4) is congratulated after scoring a run during the fourth inning against the Seattle Mariners at Minute Maid Park. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports
The Houston Astros are vastly regarded as the worst team in baseball. Currently owning a miserable 11-24 record and already nine games behind the Oakland Athletics, it isn’t hard to see why. However, before we simply disregard the Astros, I strongly believe there is some potential within the franchise. Call me crazy, but I think the Astros just need someone to spark their offense.
Take for example, the Miami Marlins. A rather average team last season, despite having Giancarlo Stanton and Jose Fernandez, they lacked that little something extra to turn themselves into a winning franchise. Having added some pieces to place around their stars in the offseason, the Marlins now lead in the way in the National League East.
In no way am I saying the Astros have stars of the same quality as Stanton and Fernandez, but they do boast some interesting players. Jose Altuve is a rather small and speedy second baseman. Not only does Altuve have the capabilities to create runs in the leadoff spot, he really could be an essential hitter in the lineup.
Altuve has always hit for a decent average and drawn a solid number of walks. After only 35 games, Altuve has continued to swing a consistent bat and already drawn eleven walks. Last season, Atuve stole 32 bases and he already boasts eleven steals thus far this season. If the Astros had some solid hitting behind Altuve, they could score some runs, and if the Astros can start scoring runs, they can win games.
What people don’t realize is the Astros do have some decent hitters to place behind Altuve. Jonathan Villar and Dexter Fowler are great hitters, and providing they up their game, could make for a pretty good middle of the lineup for Houston. As I’ve already said, the Astros simply need someone to spark their offense, someone to raise the morale and kick everyone into their best form.
The Astros may have found their spark too. Highly touted rookie outfielder, George Springer was recently called up to play in the big leagues. The other day, Springer launched his first home run in the majors with a swing that even Miguel Cabrera would be proud of. The pitching staff has already proved they can be brilliant at times.
So, if young Springer can spark the Astros, they shouldn’t be rubbished as an easy victory anymore.