ALWest_Houston Astros

2014 Cleveland Gameday HQ

HOUSTON ASTROS 5-YEAR SCORECARD 2013 2012 2011 2010 2009 WINS 51 55 56 76 95 RUNS PER GAME 3.77 3.60 3.80 4.50 3.97 RUNS ALLOWED PER GAME 5.24 4.90 4.90 3.77 4.75 OPENING-DAY PAYROLL (millions) $26 $60 $76 $92 $103 Jarred Cosart 2014 STRENGTHS: • Productive hitters in lineup • Maturing farm system 2014 WEAKNESSES: • Fledgling pitching staff lacks experience Upon finishing their first year in the American League, the Astros have now endured three straight 100-loss seasons, which is pretty incredible for a team that was a perennial playoff contender in the late 1990s and early part of this century. At the start of this streak, the organization decided to go young and rebuild through player development. Some young players may reach the big leagues this year to impact the franchise. HITTING Jose Altuve may stand just 5’5”, but he hits like he’s a foot taller. Line drives fly off his bat, and he’s stolen 30-plus bases two years in a row. Chris Carter has big power, but even bigger strikeout totals (212 last year). The Astros may have found themselves a standout catcher in Jason Castro, who came back from ACL surgery to hit 18 homers last year. Third baseman Matt Dominguez hit 21 homers in his first extended trial in the big leagues. Dexter Fowler came over via trade, and if he can stay healthy he can provide speed for the lineup. Jesus Guzman has power, but he may just be holding first base warm until top prospect Jon Singleton is deemed ready. Shortstop Jonathan Villar could add another element of speed to the lineup. AL WEST OTTO GREULE JR./GETTY IMAGES SPORT


2014 Cleveland Gameday HQ
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