Astros made right decision of Chas McCormick over Steven Souza

While the Houston Astros dropped game two of a three game set with the Texas Rangers, the Minute Maid sluggers have now lost their first series with their rivals of North Texas. Although falling 8-4, Lance McCullers Jr. looked flustered after one inning of battle that flowed into three earned runs on six hits over five innings of work.

It was evident that the bullpen struggles are continuing, but there is hope in the near future with key arms returning. Although pitching hasn’t been strong, the outfield depth is excelling in Chas McCormick as of late. While not being used as much in late April and early May, the right-hander is shining some light with the lackluster production from Myles Straw in everyone’s mind.

While not expected to make the Opening Day roster, Chas McCormick has proven he is better than Steven Souza Jr.

It wasn’t like the Astros’ bats had a rough time at the plate in Arlington; they just weren’t hot at the right times. With Yordan Alvarez currently in a short slump, the left-hander could see some rest, while his knees have been sore in the past two weeks. Although expected to see some field time this season, the designated hitter will benefit with McCormick playing well.

While Steven Souza Jr. was anticipated as one of the final non-roster invites to make the team, the right-handed hitter couldn’t find the outfield grass and was striking out at a high rate in spring training. After his release, the Los Angeles Dodgers added him as a farm hand, but no other chatter has started.

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In 15 at bats, the right-hander is slashing .200/.429/.400 with one home run in this small sample size. Souza might not see much major league time for the rest of his career, but with the Dodgers facing outfield injuries, he may as well see Los Angeles in the summer. While struggling with the Astros, the franchise turned their attention to McCormick, who made the 2020 postseason roster in hopes of a bright future.

Currently, McCormick is the fourth outfielder and should see more time in the lineup with recent success behind him. In his last seven games, the right-hander is hitting .333/.385/.833 through 12 at bats with two home runs and six RBIs. He is showing maturity with runners in scoring position.

While the two outfielders were battling for the last major league roster spot, McCormick surrendered his #20 to Souza for #6. Since early April, McCormick has his #20 back.

Although hitting right-handed, McCormick throws left-handed and has a better outfield jump than that of Straw. While being slightly slower and showing less diligence on the base paths, Straw will definitely not lose his job at the moment, as manager Dusty Baker is still backing the right-hander but knows his possible fate.

The Astros are back on the field on Sunday at 1:35 p.m. to close out their second set of the Lone Star Series. As it stands 4-2, Cristian Javier looks to stop the sweep in Arlington, before returning home to face the Dodgers. With everyone discouraged with the current status of the bullpen, here is an update on injured arms: