Looking Back: First Half Awards for the Houston Astros

First Half Best Rookie

Jun 14, 2015; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Astros starting pitcher Lance McCullers (43) pitches during the fourth inning against the Seattle Mariners at Minute Maid Park. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports

The Houston Astros have relied heavily on their rookies this year, both in the starting rotation and out in the field. Carlos Correa, Preston Tucker, Lance McCullers Jr. and Vincent Velasquez have been had to carry quite a load on the major league squad. One might think that’s a recipe for disaster, but all four of those guys have proven themselves as being ready for the big show. It’s quite impressive how well they’ve performed overall.

Since this was not one of our weekly awards, this is a staff vote. See if you agree with our picks.

Thomas O’Banion: “LMJ has been dynamite. I’m picking him primarily because he’s been up longer than Correa, who gets my second place vote.”

Larry Manch: “Correa made such an immediate impact, and played so well that I have to pick him for ROY.”

Issa Cook: “McCullers has done an unbelievable job when called upon by his team. Correa gave him a run for his money, but McCullers turned way too many heads this year with his ability to just dominate games on the mound.”

Aric Cisneros: Lance McCullers

Brandon del Castillo: “All due respect to Carlos Correa, who has announced his arrival as a future superstar, but to this point of the season Lance McCullers has built a better resume and had a slightly bigger impact.”

Brian del Castillo: “Rookie of the year is Lance McCullers for me at this point.  It’s so hard to find a quality starter and this one cost you nothing.  Correa got off to a great start to his rookie campaign, but ultimately, pitching is more valuable to a team.”

Eric Huysman: “Correa, he is already one of the best shortstops in the game. I did the math on what he would have done if he started opening day with the Astros; he would have close to 21 home runs/ 61 RBI/ 14 SB. You can read more about Correa here.”

David A. Miniel: “Carlos Correa hasn’t been with the team that long, which is why I’d say McCullers earns this honor. This kid has a bright future with this starting rotation, eventually turning this duo between himself and Keuchel into a possible Roy Oswalt/Roger Clemens reboot.”

Next: First Half Least Valuable Player