The Houston Astros are on a hot streak and looking to make a strong push in the second half of the season. A month ago, they were 10 games back in the American League West, but now they have a chance to move into a tie for the division lead as they face the Seattle Mariners in a three-game series.
The Astros have been on a tear, winning 17 out of their last 23 games since June 18. Manager Joe Espada described their season as a “roller coaster” with many ups and downs, but he is proud of the way his team has bounced back and put themselves in a good position for the rest of the season.
The Astros are also expecting reinforcements soon, with right-hander Justin Verlander and outfielder Kyle Tucker set to return from the injured list by the end of the month. Tucker expressed his eagerness to get back on the field and help his team continue their winning ways.
On the other hand, the Mariners have been struggling recently, going 8-15 since June 18. Manager Scott Servais acknowledged the need for his team to recharge during the All-Star break and come back strong for the remainder of the season.
The series opener on Friday will feature a matchup between Houston’s Hunter Brown and Seattle’s Luis Castillo. Brown has been in top form recently, winning six of his past seven starts with a 2.09 ERA. Castillo, on the other hand, has a 2-1 record with a 3.66 ERA in five career starts against the Astros.
It promises to be an exciting series between two division rivals with the Astros looking to continue their winning streak and the Mariners hoping to turn their season around. Stay tuned for some thrilling baseball action as these two teams battle it out on the field.
