Astros slugger Yordan Alvarez displayed immense bravery and determination as he battled illness to play in Game 2 of the American League Championship Series. Despite feeling unwell and experiencing symptoms such as headaches and sleeplessness, Alvarez insisted on remaining in the lineup. His dedication and resilience were on full display as he hit two home runs, albeit in a losing effort, showcasing his team’s determination to fight until the end.
Manager Dusty Baker praised Alvarez’s commitment, stating that he felt better on Monday compared to the previous day when he struggled at the plate. Looking ahead to Game 3, which will take place at Globe Life Field in Arlington, Baker expressed confidence in the team’s ability to perform well in their favored stadium, where they have excelled throughout the season.
If the Astros fail to turn the series around in their favor, it may mark the end of their 2023 campaign and potentially signal a decline for a team that has reached the ALCS for the seventh consecutive year. However, history has shown that doubting the Astros is a risky move. They have consistently performed at a high level and have been a dominant force in the league for an extended period.
Globe Life Field has been a favorable venue for the Astros, reminiscent of their success at Minute Maid Park. While their home record this season has been less impressive, they have thrived on the road, particularly at Globe Life Field, where they have averaged an impressive nine runs per game. In their previous visit to Arlington in September, the Astros notched a stunning three-game sweep against the Rangers, outscoring them 39-10 and ultimately securing the AL West title.
However, the Rangers are a different team now, with a perfect 7-0 record in the postseason. They have yet to showcase their formidable pitching depth against the Astros, potentially adding another layer of challenge for the Houston team. Max Scherzer will start Game 3 for the Rangers, but they have several other talented pitchers to rely on, including Cody Bradford and Martín Pérez, keeping their options open for subsequent games.
The Astros have not performed poorly in the series, losing Game 1 by two runs and Game 2 by just one run. Alvarez has been a standout performer for the team, contributing significantly to their offense throughout the postseason. Other players, such as Kyle Tucker and Jose Altuve, have struggled to find their form, but the Astros have demonstrated their ability to create scoring opportunities, as seen with the number of hard-hit balls against Jordan Montgomery in Game 1.
There are various factors that may contribute to the Astros’ challenges, including the toll of extended postseason runs, injuries to key players, and the team’s cautious approach to free agency compared to their division rivals, the Rangers. Despite these obstacles, owner Jim Crane’s management style has seen success, as evidenced by the team’s recent World Series win. Yet, changes may be on the horizon, with the potential departure of manager Dusty Baker as his contract nears its end.
The Astros’ players remain optimistic and determined to turn the series around in Arlington. Drawing from their vast postseason experience, they stress the importance of focusing on one pitch at a time and never giving up. As exemplified by Alvarez’s heroic performance, even in a weakened state, the Astros refuse to be counted out. While his tremendous home runs may have been overshadowed by the team’s defeat, they serve as a reminder of the Astros’ indomitable spirit in the face of adversity.
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