Star Performer of the Week: Aug. 19 – 25

The Astros went into Sunday’s game against Toronto looking for a sweep of the 3-game series at Minute Maid Park. This, after having lost three straight in Arlington to start the week. The Astros scored a total of 20 runs in the first two games of the Toronto series but the bats fell silent against Mark Buehrle on Sunday, resulting in a 2-1 loss and a 2-4 record for the week. Robbie Grossman and L.J. Hoes were key contributors over the past seven days but this week’s decision was a no-brainer.

Jason Castro had a monster week. The Astros All-Star catcher had at least one hit in each of the first five games before getting a partial day off on Sunday. His first of three homers for the week came in the second inning of Wednesday’s game and gave the Astros an early lead. Castro would blast a pair of longballs on Saturday night, helping Houston score an 8-5 victory over the Jays.

For the week Castro had 9 hits in 17 at-bats. Along with his three homers, a pair of doubles and a triple gave Castro a 1.294 slugging percentage during that time frame. He also walked four times, including a 2-out ninth inning base on balls as a pinch-hitter on Sunday. His .619 on-base percentage added up to a ridiculous 1.913 OPS.

Castro was far and away the hottest player on the Astros’ roster this week. Now we just have to wait and see if Jason’s performance was good enough to earn him American League Player of the Week honors for the second time this season. Tampa Bay’s Evan Longoria  figures to be Castro’s prime competition for the award.

Jason Castro had a week worthy of A.L. Player of the Week consideration. (Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports)