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Astros Need a Bounce-Back After Braves Clinch Playoff Berth in Houston
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- Astros Need a Bounce-Back After Braves Clinch Playoff Berth in Houston
(Troy Taormina-Imagn Images)
The Houston Astros opened up their series against the Atlanta Braves as they continue their homestand and once again dropped the ball. The Astros are keeping their fans on their toes as they continue to be exactly at .500 or barely creeping above.
Friday night's loss put the Astros right at .500 once again, and they are now tied with the Texas Rangers . The Rangers beat the Blue Jays Friday night, 7-1, a team that sits below .500. The Braves, meanwhile, are dominating the entire league and have already clinched a playoff berth, so the Rangers could easily take sole possession of the division lead as soon as today.
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On a side note, Mauricio Dubon was welcomed back to his old stadium with happy cheers from his fans. A very cool moment for the former Astro.
But now, back to the game. They really can't afford another loss, but the Braves are next level. That being said, you never know with this Astros team. They could even out the series Saturday night and secure a series win Sunday afternoon. Only time will tell. For now, here is a look at what to expect for Saturday night's game.
Hayden Wesneski will take the mound for the Houston Astros . Wesneski is one of their most reliable arms. That being said, Peter Lambert is likely their most reliable arm, and he took a loss Friday night. Lambert actually hasn't had a win to his name since the All-Star break. Not necessarily his fault, but it just goes to show that the Braves were not going to be the team to give him a win. The Braves' lineup is no joke. Wesneski will have to be one hundred percent in order to limit base runners. Wesneski is entering Saturday night's game with a 5-2 record, 3.70 ERA, and 38 strikeouts.
He is up against Grant Holmes , RHP, 9-5, 3.49 ERA, 110 SO. Now, it's not like Grant is an elite ace, but he is still a solid pitcher and has been consistent for the Braves this season. So, he is good, but definitely someone this Astros lineup can handle if they are on top of their game.
Saturday night would be the perfect opportunity to even out this series and either take the true AL West lead back or, at the very least, keep things tied with the Rangers.
