We already know that the Astros will lean heavily on their offense and rotation to propel any kind of postseason run. The lineup, adjusted for league- and park-effects, was 16 percent better than average. It was also the best in baseball this season by that same measure, wRC+. The rotation was more than adequate, if unspectacular on occasion. To borrow a football term, more of a bend-don’t-break unit. Still, this position grouping was worth 4.8 wins above average, with only the White Sox (10.5), Yankees (8.5), and Blue Jays (6.5) finishing better. There is no hidden mystery about why this roster was successful with a 95-67 record overall.
Postseason Aspirations May Rely Upon a Leaky Bullpen
