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USA Today via Reuters
Oct 30, 2021; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Houston Astros manager Dusty Baker (12) in the dugout prior to game four of the 2021 World Series against the Atlanta Braves at Truist Park. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports
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USA Today via Reuters
Oct 30, 2021; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Houston Astros manager Dusty Baker (12) in the dugout prior to game four of the 2021 World Series against the Atlanta Braves at Truist Park. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports
After a battle of months, the MLB season is closing to an ultimate end. Whether ensuring the top place finish from their groups or making it through the wild card round, every game has become crucial for teams. It includes the reigning champions, who have lost the last two games and their top place in the AL West. Given these have come against one of the poor-performing teams, doubts about their title defense have poured in. But the Houston Astros’ manager does not think so.
It has not been the best of the weeks for the Astros. Notably, they once looked set for the top finish and a direct spot in the playoffs, but the cycle has turned for them. They have lost all of their last three series, the latest against the Kansas City Royals. But even after that, skipper Dusty Baker feels the team will make a comeback. Although positivity is fine, fans do not feel the same and have shared their apprehensions on social media.
Even After Shocking Series Loss, Believer Dusty Baker Shows Positives
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When a team is a defending champion and leading their group, everyone expects it to win. But the story has been different for the Houston Astros. They have lost two of their last series against Kansas City Royals, a team that has lost over 100 games this season.
Thus, many feel that the Stars are unlikely to have their hand again on the trophy. The reason is the downfall near the playoffs, which has pushed them back into the wild-card chase. Houston is not facing a challenge from the Seattle Mariners, who are just 0.5 games behind pilling misery for the defending champions.
Given the challenge, there are possibilities that the Stars could not even get the playoffs bus this season. Their struggle while pitching and batting adds to the wait. The loss 3-2 loss against the Royals is another example of an underperforming squad.
“I’m a believer in my team and a believer that the cream rises to the top. We’re close.” — Dusty Baker.
— Brian McTaggart (@brianmctaggart) September 24, 2023
But even after it, Dusty Baker is positive and is not losing confidence in the title defense. According to Brian McTaggart, Baker addressed it as, “I’m a believer in my team and a believer that the cream rises to the top. We’re close.” — Dusty Baker.” With a ton of experience, the statement holds weight, but it fell short of gaining fan support.
Fans Show Displeasure as the Astros Continue to Lose Grip
It was a steady season for the Houston Astros. And when they again moved to the top spot, it gave fans a lot of hope. But that all has changed with the latest run. Though experienced Baker still thinks that they would make it to the playoffs, fans have their doubts.
Sounding like Aaron Boone pic.twitter.com/eq2im1dm9i
— Gom Jabbar Survivor (@MrAviator1906) September 24, 2023
Others said the positivity seems to be a mirage.
Is he watching the same team we all are because it looks like the Astros rolled over and died
— Steve W (@CowsinSpace87) September 24, 2023
One fan said the team itself does not believe in the coach.
dusty, your team isn’t a believer in you.
— steven (@stevenray_04) September 24, 2023
Close to an early vacation and your retirement!!! 😆
— Keith Corner (@CornerKeith) September 24, 2023
Few fans don’t want him in the next season.
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He must not coach this team next year.
— J Rizzle (@jordan_reisner) September 24, 2023
Watch this story: Yankees Unearth $92 Million Curse Defying Astros for Epic Turnaround
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Although Dusty Baker looks confident, the sense of insecurity and unhappiness is there in the fans. With other teams upping their game, the fear is real. Thus, do you think the Astros can make a comeback? Let us know in the comments.
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