Houston Astros Go 7-17, But Jose Altuve Defends His Under-Performing Teammates: “We Have Great Players”

The Houston Astros, who were once a dominant force in baseball, are currently going through a crisis. With a disappointing 17-7 start, one of the worst in franchise history for this point in the season, fans are now wondering if they’re headed toward a disaster. But the Astros’ veteran, Jose Altuve, has a different perspective.

Even the ever-so-optimistic Altuve, who is also a pillar of the Astros’ success in the recent past, seems to be clinging to hope by a thread. Addressing the power the Astros once had, he insisted, “We still have that team,” with the same words reinforced by Manager Joe Espada. Believing in the team’s winning abilities, they might be struggling to get out of such a frustrating performance this season. 

Jose Altuve displays a ray of hope for the Houston Astros

The reasons behind the Astros’ issues have many aspects. Injuries have devastated their pitching staff, particularly with key players like Framber Valdez sidelined. The once-reliable bullpen has now become a liability of sorts, with a save percentage in the lower range of the league. Offensively, the team is struggling to capitalize on scoring opportunities, leaving a staggering number of runners stranded on base.

Amid the gloom in Houston, the 33-year-old second baseman said, “We have stretches where we win eight out of 10, and I say we have a great team. I’m going to say the same thing right now: we have great players, guys encouraging each other to go out there and win games. We still have that team,” as per The Athletic.

On one hand, the talent on paper is undeniable. On the other, the Astros’ lack of depth is becoming glaringly evident. The clutch performer believes that their farm system, which was long considered a weakness, isn’t producing the reinforcements they need. Also, another veteran Alex Bregman, is currently in deep slumps, despite his once-dominant form at the plate. 

Joe Espada’s role in getting the team back up

Joe Espada, in his first year as their manager, faces a daunting task. He inherited a team littered with injuries and a roster with apparent flaws. Now, even after maintaining a positive public persona, Espada must work his magic to push this discouraged team to do better and find solutions with a limited hand.

He understands the intensity of the situation, as he said, “I sense guys are tired of the situation we are in. The only way to get over that is, we just have to get over the hump. We have to continue to fight. They’re trying. The effort is there. We just have to be better.” While these words can be of comfort for the team, there has to be another, more actionable method to reclaim their former glory.

At the moment, the world is waiting to see things turn around for the ’Stros. What’s your take on Jose Altuve’s narrative? Let us know in the comments below.