Houston Astros: Three nightmare opponents during first half
By Kyle Cardoza
New York Yankees
Houston has lost just eight series all season. But two of those losses came against the new Bronx Bombers.
In fact, the Astros have more losses against the Yankees than against any other team at five. And that was only across seven games. In comparison, Houston owns an 11-4 record against Texas and an 8-1 record against Oakland.
Somehow, the Yankees exposed the Astros’ flaws. Arguably, New York’s pitching perplexed Houston hitters across several innings.
During the team’s first series with New York, it scored just seven runs in four games. That series included the only time in which an opponent blanked Houston in back-to-back games. The Astros have been shutout in just five games all season.
It’s not necessarily a surprise that the Yankees’ pitching staff dominated the Astros lineup. New York owns the second-best ERA in baseball, behind Houston – of course. And it has the third-best bullpen in baseball.
Hence, when Jordan Montgomery exited a game against the Astros after one inning, the relief unit dealt against them to shut them out. Luis Severino, a Cy Young candidate, tossed a gem the following night.
The second series was more promising for Houston, as it accumulated nine runs in three games. But again, Severino foiled the club in one of the matchups.
Both teams seemed projected to face off once again in the postseason. Nevertheless, that’s if each team continues to dominate their respective divisions.
However, October would be the soonest fans see the loaded clubs encounter each other once again.