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The Houston Astros have had a bumpy few weeks, but they are still holding onto first place in the American League West with about 30 games left to play. Their record in August sits at 10-13, but there are signs of better days ahead. Yordan Alvarez returned this week after missing more than two months on the injured list, and Jake Meyers has started a rehab assignment that could bring him back soon.
The lineup has seen its ups and downs, with Cam Smith sitting out due to a deep slump. But two veterans have stepped up when the team needed them most. Christian Walker and Carlos Correa have both raised their level in August, and their bats are giving Houston a much-needed lift.
Walker, in particular, looks like he is rediscovering his power. He had only 13 home runs entering the month, but he has hit six in August, including three in his last six games. Walker signed a three-year, $60 million deal with Houston this past offseason, and while his season totals are below his usual standards, he now has 19 homers and plenty of time to finish strong. If he can heat up just as October approaches, the Astros will look much more dangerous.
Correa has been just as important. Since joining Houston midseason, he has played 23 games and posted an impressive .867 OPS with three home runs and three doubles. His steady presence and timely hitting have made him a key part of the lineup during this push.
The Astros are 72-60 and not without flaws, but they have shown time and again over the last seven years that they can survive rough patches and come out stronger. With their veterans producing, injured stars returning, and a playoff spot within reach, Houston still looks like a team built for another deep October run.