The Houston Astros have received some extremely positive news regarding one of their greatest players.
The Houston Astros have received some extremely positive news regarding one of their greatest players.
At one time this year, the Houston Astros appeared to be nearing the end of their successful dynasty. Then, MVP candidate outfielder Kyle Tucker suffered an injury, and it appeared that Houston’s season was over.
They then went on a tremendous tear, narrowing the AL West deficit and passing the Seattle Mariners altogether. With just under a month left in the regular season, they’ve put themselves in the division lead.
FanGraphs gives them a staggering 93.8 percent chance of winning the division. This figure could rise even higher if the team’s top player returns.
Tucker is expected to return to the Astros’ lineup sooner rather than later.
Astros eyeing potential Kyle Tucker return as early as September 4th
And, before his injury, Tucker was Houston’s best player. He was slicing.In only 60 games, he hit 266/.395/.584, including 19 home runs, 10 stolen bases, and more walks than strikeouts. He was right in the thick of the AL MVP argument early in the season.
According to Astros beat writer Chadler Rome, Tucker might return to the Astros lineup this week, with probable return dates against the Cincinnati Reds on Wednesday or Thursday.
This return would most certainly secure Houston’s division title. They’ve been lacking an impact bat all season, and Tucker would give just that when he returns.
A comeback date of September 4th or 5th would give Tucker about a month to get back in the box, rediscover his stride, and regain his swing before Houston enters the postseason. This month will be less about his production and more about getting him back in the groove before the Astros focus on winning the pennant and another World Series.
The Mariners are devastated to learn that Tucker is close to returning. Any hopes they had of winning the division should be dashed. They still have a chance at the AL Wild Card, but the chances are not in their favor. Barring an extraordinary win streak, Seattle is likely to be on the outside looking in come October.
