Call to the pen
Fansided

Houston Astros defense has been hidden part of success

By David Hill

Jul 2, 2021; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Houston Astros second baseman Jose Altuve (27) fields a ground ball in the third inning against the Cleveland Indians at Progressive Field. Mandatory Credit: David Richard-USA TODAY Sports
Jul 2, 2021; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Houston Astros second baseman Jose Altuve (27) fields a ground ball in the third inning against the Cleveland Indians at Progressive Field. Mandatory Credit: David Richard-USA TODAY Sports /
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The Houston Astros have done an impressive job in recapturing their form. After a sub-.500 season that culminated in a surprising postseason push, the Astros have been able to overcome their inconsistencies to leap back to the top of the AL West, holding a 2.5 game lead over the A’s heading into Sunday.

There are plenty of reasons as to why the Astros have been able to rocket back up the standings. The offense has been impressive this year, leading the American League in runs, hits, batting average, on base percentage, and OPS while ranking in the top five in almost every other category. No matter how much fans of other teams want to heckle and bring up the trash can scandal, it is clear that the Astros have not needed them this year.

Houston Astros hidden part of 2021 success

Likewise, the Astros pitching staff has stepped up. Despite numerous injuries to start the season, the Astros are third in the AL with a 3.62 ERA, having allowed only 301 earned runs. They have allowed just 334 runs in total, the second fewest of any AL team this season.

More Astros. Getting Odorizzi on track. light

That relatively small amount of unearned runs highlights another aspect where the Astros have excelled this season. While fielding percentage is not a defensive metric that gets much respect any longer, Houston’s .989 fielding percentage leads the majors, committing just 32 errors on the year.

More modern defensive metrics are also a fan of Houston’s glove work. Both Jose Altuve and Carlos Correa rank second at their positions in runs saved this season. Kyle Tucker ranks fourth, but has also proven to be an excellent defensive presence in either corner outfield position. As a team, the Astros defense is considered to have saved 37 runs this year.

Unless it is a highlight reel play, defense does not get nearly the attention that a home run or a high octane fastball receive. Yet, in the case of the Astros, defense has been an important part of their success. The offense may produce, and the pitchers may perform well, but if the players on the diamond are not making those plays behind them, none of it matters.

Next. Houston Astros Mount Rushmore. dark

The Houston Astros defense has been an underappreciated part of their success this season. It is time their gloves get their due.

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