Coming off a 2-5 homestand, the Astros found themselves not only chasing the Rangers but also trying to hold off the Mariners. The AL West, in short order, has embraced chaos. Not exactly where I envisioned the defending champions in late August, but here they are. For the first time since 2016 — 2020 was basically a short sample — the AL West is completely up for grabs. A compelling, yet stressful development.
This current six-game road trip through Detroit and Boston could hold significant ramifications for the Astros. After all, Seattle is also in the middle of a pivotal six-game stretch, but against the Royals and Athletics.