Title: Astros Prepare for Tough ALDS Series Against the Minnesota Twins
Date: October 5, 2023
Author: Brian McTaggart
The Houston Astros are gearing up for a challenging American League Division Series (ALDS) against the Minnesota Twins. Despite the loss of former Astros star shortstop Carlos Correa, the Twins have proven to be a formidable team with strong pitching, power in the lineup, and a formidable closer. The Astros, aware of the challenge that awaits them, are preparing for a crucial five-game series.
Having witnessed the Twins’ impressive sweep over the Blue Jays in the AL Wild Card Series, Astros manager Dusty Baker acknowledges that his team will have their hands full against the AL Central champions. The Twins’ pitching prowess, solid defense, and a lineup heavily comprised of left-handed hitters pose a significant challenge. Baker recognizes that the Twins are a formidable opponent with a talented team.
The Astros are well aware of the Twins’ capabilities, as the two teams squared off six times during the regular season. However, they haven’t met since May and have yet to face some of the Astros’ top pitchers, such as Justin Verlander, Framber Valdez, and Cristian Javier this year.
Speaking about the Twins, Houston General Manager Dana Brown highlighted their legitimacy in the postseason, pointing out their impressive performances from both starters and relievers, their offensive firepower, and the talent of young prospect Royce Lewis. Brown emphasized that winning Game 1 will be crucial for the Astros’ success in the series.
Historically, the Astros have performed exceptionally well in the ALDS, with an 18-5 overall record and a 6-1 record in openers. While most of their victories came at home, the Astros will seek to regain their home-field advantage after finishing the regular season with a losing home record. Their unblemished 11-0 record in ALDS games at Minute Maid Park since 2017 provides them with confidence going into the series.
Astros outfielder Chas McCormick emphasized the importance of redemption, acknowledging that the team’s recent performance hasn’t been up to par. However, he expressed the players’ enthusiasm for playing at home and the need to be fully focused and prepared against the Twins’ strong challenge.
The Astros have strategically lined up their pitching rotation, with Verlander starting Game 1 and Valdez taking the mound for Game 2. Javier is expected to start Game 3, with Houston particularly mindful of minimizing damage against the Twins’ left-handed hitters. Limiting their impact will be crucial, especially considering Valdez may be the only left-handed pitcher on the Astros’ roster.
The Twins’ pitching staff led the Major Leagues in strikeouts, making their Game 2 starter, Pablo López, a key player to watch. With Houston boasting the third-fewest strikeouts among Major League teams, they look to put pressure on the Twins’ defense by being aggressive at the plate.
The Astros enter the ALDS with a wealth of playoff experience, having played 93 postseason games since 2015. They will rely on this experience, as well as the arm of Verlander and the support of their passionate home crowd to pursue their quest for a third World Series title in seven seasons.
Astros’ third baseman Alex Bregman affirmed that execution in all facets of the game will be crucial in the postseason. The team hopes to execute at their best and emerge victorious against the Twins in the upcoming series.