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Astros: Three batters to watch in the ALCS
By Cody Poage
Batter to Watch: Yuli Gurriel
If it wasn’t for Jose Altuve’s incredible Game 1 of the ALDS, Yuli Gurriel may have received more attention. No, wait, he deserves more attention.
The Astros’ first baseman may not hit for much power or draw many walks, but his ability to get hits is an asset. He also doesn’t strike out much. For example, Gurriel has a .176 ISO in the postseason. But he has seven singles, a double and a triple. This is good for a .529 batting average.
Hey, hits are still better than outs.
Gurriel is a batter capable of helping the Astros in the postseason. He can help set the stage for his teammates. Gurriel did that well in the ALDS.
ALDS Offensive Metrics: .529/.556/.706, 248 wRC+, 7 1B, 2B, 3B
Unfortunately, he would only score one run in the ALDS. Just one. But he got on-base so what more can you ask for?
While Gurriel will not blow anyone away with his power or ability for extra bases, he does provide a consistent source of contact. And while walk rate is low – 3.9 BB% -, the Astros’ rookie strikeout rate isn’t bad as well – 11 K% – when you consider everything. He could be the type of contact threat the Astros need against the Yankees.