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Astros: Houston, We Have a Rivalry! The Silver Boot Means so Much More Now
The Astros Process
Jun 28, 2015; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Astros center fielder George Springer (4) hits a single during the first inning against the New York Yankees at Minute Maid Park. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports
However, in 2015 the Astros rebuild came to an abrupt end as they showed early that they were ready to compete. Meanwhile, the Rangers who were coming off a horrendous, injury-riddled year and with mediocre 2015 expectations, fought their way to the top as well. Now, we’re in September, and the American League Western Division seems to be a dogfight between these two unlikely contenders. With 2015 clearly the most immediate concern, these two young teams are also positioning themselves for a strong battle over the next 5+ years.
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The Astros young and revamped team has been well documented. With all that losing over the last few years, they were able to secure three straight #1 overall picks. One of those has been a direct hit. Carlos Correa, the 20-year-old shortstop for Houston, has shown that he can already play at a high level worthy of lofty comparisons. He’s joined by young pitchers Lance McCullers, Vincent Velasquez, and Michael Feliz with more on the horizon. That farm system is still stacked as well. The Astros are primed to be good for a very long time.
Next: The Rangers plan, get younger.