Astros 2014 Review

Sep 3, 2014; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Astros starting pitcher Collin McHugh (31) delivers a pitch during the first inning against the Los Angeles Angels at Minute Maid Park. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports

September

The Astros started off with the month with the firing of Manger Bo Porter, who was 59-79 on the year. It was known the Luhnow and Porter didn’t really see eye-to-eye, and with the Astros on the brink of moving to the next phase, it was time to move on. Tom Lawless took over as the interim manager, winning his first three games at the helm. As good as Collin McHugh was in August, he was even better in September going 4-0 in 4 starts, with a 1.59 ERA and 25 strikeouts in 28.1 innings. This performance ensured he would get the AL Rookie of the Month, joining George Springer from earlier in the season.

On September 7th, the Astros beat the A’s 4-3 for their 63rd win of the season and ensured they would not have a fourth straight season of 100 losses. Then, on September 16th, Jose Altuve broke Craig Biggio’s season single hits franchise-record by recording his 211th hit of the season. He continued to log more hits as the season progressed, making the new franchise-record 225 hits in a single season. Altuve went on to win the AL Batting Title on the final day by finishing with a .341 BA.

The Astros finished the month 11-13, and had an overall record of 70-92. They had improved on the previous season by 19 games, something not seen very often in Major League Baseball. By moving onto their next phase, they were ready to hire a manager. A.J. Hinch was hired on September 29th to manage the Astros as they look to make a playoff push in the upcoming years and become legitimate contenders.