The Astros are in First Place for the First Time this Season
It was a rough start to the 2024 season for the Houston Astros. They got off to what was easily their worst start over the past few years, as they only won twelve of their first 30 games. At this point in time, it was looking like the dynasty that they had created over the past few years was coming to an end. They progressed slowly throughout the rest of the season, as they improved their record to .500 through 50 games played. However, they never really seemed to show the same command that they once had, as they hovered in second place in an American League West division that was headlined by the Seattle Mariners, until Saturday night. The Astros beat the Mariners by a score of 4-2 and took first place in the division for the first time this season.
The Astros came into the top of the seventh down 2-1 but piled together three runs in the seventh and eighth innings to take a two-run lead. They were carried by Jake Meyers, who had a two-run homer in the seventh, and Yainer Diaz, who hit a solo shot in the eighth. Jeremy Pena also had an RBI. Tanner Scott picked up the win, Ryne Stanek took the loss, and Josh Hader picked up the save. The Astros are a dangerous team, and them being in first definitely shakes up the American League playoff picture. While it’s virtually the same teams in the mix, teams like the Cleveland Guardians, Baltimore Orioles, and New York Yankees probably wouldn’t love facing them in the early rounds, as their playoff experience makes them a tough feat. We certainly are in store for an interesting playoff picture, nonetheless.
Whether you like Houston or not, which most people don’t, what they’ve done so far this season says a lot about baseball. Every game counts, but no game will make or break your season. 162 games is a long time, and no matter when you’re counted out, comebacks are always in the picture. Baseball fans are in store for an interesting second half, as you never know what’s in store.
