Astros 2022 Season Predictions: Awards and Standings

Apr 3, 2022; West Palm Beach, Florida, USA; Houston Astros shortstop Jeremy Pena (3) celebrates his three run home-run against the Washington Nationals with left fielder Michael Brantley (23) in the fourth innings of the spring training game at The Ballpark of the Palm Beaches. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 3, 2022; West Palm Beach, Florida, USA; Houston Astros shortstop Jeremy Pena (3) celebrates his three run home-run against the Washington Nationals with left fielder Michael Brantley (23) in the fourth innings of the spring training game at The Ballpark of the Palm Beaches. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports /
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Houston Astros, Justin Verlander
Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports /

Justin Verlander wins his third Cy Young

Verlander has been on absolute fire throughout spring training this year, only allowing 11 hits, four walks and two runs through 13.2 innings. Even though this is only spring training, I think this points to a big year for the 39-year-old.

I think the mental aspect of the game has always been big for Verlander, looking back on his struggles in Detroit in the early 2010s. The fact that he thinks that he is not completely ready yet, while still being an ace throughout the preseason, leads me to believe that he is ready and working towards a monster year, and I believe that the time is now.

My sleeper prediction is that Ryan Pressly wins a Cy Young as a closer. He has quietly been getting better and better every year.