Houston Astros: Five Things We Learned From Last Night

2. Homers Still Get Wins

Oct 6, 2015; Bronx, NY, USA; Houston Astros center fielder Carlos Gomez (30) rounds the bases after hitting a solo home run against the New York Yankees during the fourth inning in the American League Wild Card playoff baseball game at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Adam Hunger-USA TODAY Sports

The primary reason a lot of analysts don’t believe the Astros can reach the World Series is their low batting average and high strikeout rate. It’s a valid conclusion. Postseason typically brings the best pitching, which in return is not good for low contact teams. However, the Astros showed last night the home run ball can still get it done for the team. While it might not be how they can win every game, they can certainly create problems for opposing pitching staffs.

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Outside of two pitches, the Yankees pitching staff did quite well last night only allowing five hits. But, two bad pitches from Tanaka equaled two home runs for the Astros. Opposing pitchers can’t afford to make mistakes versus this ball club. The low batting average and high strikeout rate very well could be the death of the Astros. But, the home run ball very well could allow the Astros to bring multiple pennants home.

Next: The Bullpen CAN Get It Done