Astros: Alex Bregman reaches an incredible milestone

This kid is special. But we already knew that, but he could be the best player for the Astros for a while.

The third-year third baseman and former 1st round pick from LSU, Alex Bregman is something special. Astros fans already know that. Whether it’s his hustle to run down a pop fly, his patience at the plate, his keen eye or his friendly antics, A-Breg means a whole lot to this team and the city of Houston.

On Wednesday, September 12th, he accomplished something that put him in a class all by himself. He became the only third baseman ever to notch 100 RBI, hit 50 doubles and mash 30 home runs in a season. The only other player to reach this mark is Albert Pujols.

That’s pretty solid company to keep if you ask me. He credits his success to being more patient at the plate. Like Pujols at a young age, Bregman has mastered the strike zone and knows how to crush the ball.

In-house records.

He may be in a category of his own for a third baseman, but he’s mounting Astronomical numbers in the franchise record books too. Pun intended, indeed!

The last Astro to hit 50 doubles was Lance Berkman back in 2001. Hall of Famer and Astros legend, Craig Biggio set the doubles record at 56.

The last Astro to bring more than 100 runners home was Carlos Lee in 2009 with 102. Bregman has 100 already with 16 games still left to play.

Alas, he becomes only the second Houston Astro to hit 100 RBI, scoring 100 runs and hit 50 doubles since the Big Puma himself, Lance Berkman in 2001.

Pedal to the medal.

Although he may be a tad behind in the MVP race, Bregman isn’t letting up anytime soon. With 16 games still left to play he has his eyes on still improving.

“He’s having quite a season because of the preparation he’s doing, the lessons he’s learning, and the application of the game has been unreal,” Astros manager AJ Hinch said.

Bregman said in hindsight;

“I’m going to look back and say there’s so much room to improve and I’ve got to get a lot better,”

Of course, individual accomplishments aren’t what this team is about. Sure these records and milestones are proud moments, but the eye on the prize remains to repeat as champions.

Since the All-Star break, when Bregman took off, he has been the most consistent hitter. He leads the team in most categories, and his .296 batting average is 3rd best on the squad. He leads the team in OBP with .398 with focus, discipline and a desire to win he will find a way to get on base.

With 16 left, keep your eye on his motor as he looks you in the eye through the cameras on-screen after a big hit.

*** Stats courtesy of Baseball-Reference and MLB.com ***