Houston won 7–0 in Seattle on Sept. 22, but Cristian Javier exited after two innings with a groin issue and Brice Matthews aggravated his knee. Jeremy Peña also left after being hit by a pitch; his X-rays were negative. Daulton Varsho had already missed a second straight game with a wrist issue and remained day-to-day. Return timelines were still uncertain when reported.
OUR TAKESeven runs and somehow the lineup card still lost. Center field: some assembly required. October: batteries not included.
Former Astro Alex Bregman, now with the Cubs, was struck in the face by a foul ball Sunday and treated at a hospital. He later posted an update from Chicago.
OUR TAKEYou can leave Houston. Apparently the bad juju has your forwarding address. Our completely unqualified curse department refuses to rule anything out.
The Houston Chronicle reported that the Astros no longer controlled their playoff fate after Saturday’s loss and the Rangers’ win.
Update · Sep 23: Houston regained control of its playoff path after its Sept. 22 win and Texas’ loss. The Sept. 19 report below is historical, not the current picture.Read the update
OUR TAKEBack in control of their own destiny. Unfortunately for Houston, that puts Houston in charge.