4 Astros big predictions as MLB spring training begins.

 

The Houston Astros are in full stride at Spring Training, aiming to establish the sport’s first dynasty in decades by 2024.

Despite the turmoil surrounding a sign-stealing scam, the Astros proved that their 2017 World Series victory was no fluke when they won their second world championship in 2022. Houstonians surely wished for more, especially considering the Astros had made seven consecutive ALCS berths and two more World Series.

Last season, they made a comeback against their division opponent, the Texas Rangers, to win the AL West championship, but it was all for naught as the Rangers won the AL pennant and subsequently the World Series. The battle has intensified, with the defending world champions poised to nibble at the Astros’ heels once more. However, the 2024 Astros are expected to be talented once again, and they will attempt to win their fourth consecutive AL West title and eighth in eight years, as well as a return to the Fall Classic. So, with that said, here are some bold predictions for the 2024 Astros.

One of the game’s most powerful and feared power hitters is set to crush in 2024. That is assuming he can remain healthy, which has been a challenge for Alvarez since the beginning of his career. He missed 48 games last year and hit 31 home runs, six fewer than his career high from the previous season.

In 2021, Alvarez played the most games of his career, with 144. If given a year and a clean bill of health, there’s no telling what this guy may do at the bat. Alvarez leads the league with 52 home runs, two fewer than Atlanta Braves first baseman Matt Olson’s 54 previous season.

Justin Verlander has made less than 25 starts and 140 strikeouts.

After striking out 290 in 2018 and 300 in 2019, Verlander has not reached 200 strikeouts in a season since. Some of this is most likely due to injury, exhaustion, or simply father time getting the better of the present 41-year-old. Between 2022 and last season, Verlander went from 185 strikeouts in 28 games started to 144 in 27 starts. As the veteran begins the season on the IL, his stats are expected to decline more.

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