The Astros continue their run of winning baseball on the road in Detroit.
Although no two teams are exactly the same, the 2019 edition of the Astros is starting to remind a lot of people about the 2017 team. You know, the team that eventually won the World Series? Between the strong lineup and dependable pitching staff, Houston is evoking memories of 2017.
Best record in baseball
The Astros solely own the best record in baseball (27-15) following their 8-1 win over the Tigers on Monday. The club also possesses the best run differential in the game at +76 runs. Second-place? The Cubs at +54 runs.
Brad Peacock continues to rebound
On May 2nd against the Twins, Peacock surrendered seven runs in only 3 2/3 innings at Target Field. It was not a good start for the veteran right-hander, who saw his ERA inflate all the way to 5.28. Fast forward to May 14th and we’ve seen Peacock’s ERA drop back down to 4.01, thanks to his last two starts. While he wasn’t as effective in Detroit (4 walks) compared to his start against the Royals last week at Minute Maid Park (1 walk), Peacock managed to allow only one run in 5 innings of work.
Look out for Jake Marisnick
A lot of things can change in one year. Like, a lot. If you would’ve told that I would be an father by this upcoming November a year ago, I wouldn’t have believe you. My own father was still alive one year ago today. Life can seriously change in a hurry. It can happen to everybody.
Look at Marisnick as an example on the baseball field. In his first 69 plate appearances in 2018, the Astros’ outfielder hit .164/.176/.328 with three home runs and a 33 wRC+. While his defense makes him quite valuable, it only works long-term if his bat shows some progress. Fast forward to his first 69 plate appearances in 2019, Marisnick has hit .297/.348/.563 with four home runs and a 147 wRC+. The defense is still there while the bat has come back to life this season. A welcomed development for a player who looked like his time in Houston was drawing to an end last year.