Minnesota Twins Poised to Challenge Astros in ALDS
HOUSTON — The Minnesota Twins are entering the American League Division Series (ALDS) with a strong lineup and a solid pitching staff, posing a significant challenge to the Houston Astros. Astros manager Dusty Baker has acknowledged that his team will have its hands full against the AL Central champs.
After watching the Twins’ sweep over the Blue Jays in the AL Wild Card Series, Baker recognized the Twins’ strengths, including their pitching, defense, and a lineup filled with left-handed hitters. He also praised their manager, recognizing that they are a formidable team.
The Twins and Astros last met on May 31, and Minnesota has yet to face the Astros’ top three starting pitchers, Justin Verlander, Framber Valdez, and Cristian Javier, this year. Houston General Manager Dana Brown emphasized that the Twins did not face the “real Astros” during the regular season. However, he also mentioned that the Twins look strong in the postseason, with their starters and relievers performing exceptionally well.
The Astros have had success in the ALDS, with an 18-5 all-time record, including a 6-1 record in openers. They are aiming to recapture their home-field advantage after finishing the regular season with a losing home record. The team has a perfect 11-0 record in ALDS games at Minute Maid Park since 2017.
Astros outfielder Chas McCormick acknowledged that the team needs to redeem themselves after a subpar regular season performance. He emphasized the importance of showing up, staying focused, and being fully prepared for the challenge the Twins will bring.
With the Astros having had five days off since the end of the regular season, they were able to line up their pitching rotation. Verlander will start Game 1, followed by Valdez in Game 2. Javier is expected to be the Game 3 starter, although it has not been officially announced.
The Astros will need to limit the damage caused by the Twins’ left-handed hitters, as they have been a key part of Minnesota’s success. Twins pitchers led the Major Leagues in strikeouts, while Houston hitters had the third-fewest strikeouts.
The Astros will rely on their playoff experience, the arm of Verlander, and the support of their home crowd as they pursue their third World Series title in seven seasons.
Astros third baseman Alex Bregman emphasized the importance of execution in all aspects of the game in the postseason. He expects the team to be ready and focused on executing their game plan.
The ALDS opener between the Astros and the Twins is scheduled for Saturday.