The Houston Astros, known for their power and accuracy, suddenly face scrutiny. Not only did the club lose players like Alex Bregman and Kyle Tucker, but it also lost a lot of its mental strength. The front office brought in new players to reset things and bring back the spark that made the Astros tough to beat. And one such player is their 1 B.
The one who is known for his outstanding defense and swing, which has sent balls flying into the stands in past seasons. There was excitement upon his arrival. He was a sign of promise for a squad going through a change. But as the season progressed, the pyrotechnics that were supposed to happen were replaced with a string of almost-hits and broken promises. The crowd watched with expectant glances that turned into critical stares as the player tried to get his rhythm.
Christian Walker, the Astros’ $60 million righty, had won the Gold Glove thrice and hit 25 or more doubles, 25 or more home runs, and 80 or more RBIs in the last three seasons. However, there is a slump in his performance now, with a batting average of below .20o and an OPS under .600. And now, the pressure is mounting. What is he doing to get through it? Everything!
Walker turned to classic baseball superstitions to get out of his funk. He left his locker, which Jason Heyward and Jose Abreu had used before him, and moved to the next one, hoping that might change his luck. Not only that, he also did some experiments with his looks.
Walker had a mustache for the first two games of this 11-day homestand but cut it off after getting one hit in his first eight at-bats. For the game versus Seattle on Saturday, high socks were worn. And a clean-shaven Walker hit two singles around 175 feet. This lucky break might now make him want to keep his look.
When asked about these in an interview with the Athletics, he said, “I’ll do whatever I can to try to get the baseball gods’ attention.” Um, sounds a little weird or surprising? Well, as long as the Astros are winning and he is hitting, everything works. Isn’t it?
However, the problems persisted.
Walker’s 30.6% strikeout rate and performance with runners in scoring position were concerning. Out of 45 such at-bats, 25 were strikeouts. Walker remained contemplative and committed despite the challenges. “I’m really comfortable at the moment with how I’m preparing and the work I’m putting in before the game… I think when you’re comfortable with the process, it makes dealing with the results a little bit easier.”
Manager Joe Espada discussed Walker and is hopeful. “He’s been a really good hitter for a very long time… It’s all about the journey, and it’s a very long season.” As the season goes on, they hope Walker’s methods and strength will drive the comeback they seek. And in the game against Seattle, everyone saw a glimpse. The question is, can the Astros utilize this?
Astros capitalize on Mariners
On Saturday, the Houston Astros won 2-1 by taking advantage of Seattle Mariners’ first-half blunders. The Seattle Mariners’ defense allowed two unearned runs to the Astros in the first inning.
The Astros scored both of their runs in the first inning. Mariners pitcher Bryan Woo made a mistake in delivering the ball, and second baseman Leo Rivas mishandled a grounder. Even though Houston got out to a good start, their offense had a hard time building on it, going 0-for-8 with runners in scoring position. Framber Valdez pitched well, giving up only one run in six innings. Josh Hader finished the game with his 13th save.
Christian Walker, who had been in a rut all season, helped with two hits, one of which was an RBI single that sent Jose Altuve home. The close triumph deserved primary thanks to Walker’s efforts and Jeremy Pena’s two hits.
The Mariners had chances to tie the game or take the lead, but they couldn’t take advantage of them. They went 0-for-6 with runners in scoring position. In the second inning, they only scored one when Randy Arozarena hit a triple and Mitch Garver hit a groundout that brought him home. Meanwhile, Woo pitched well, giving up nine hits but no earned runs in six innings.
Hard luck for the Mariners, but a good win for the Astros.
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