To say the Houston Astros have struggled would be an understatement. They finished the 2012 season with a record of 55-107 putting them in last place in the National League Central and haven’t had a winning season since 2008 when they finished in third place with an 86-75 record. 2013 won’t be any easier for the team as they enter the American League West alongside the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim, Oakland A’s, Texas Rangers, and Seattle Mariners; a division full of talent. So, Astros fans, prepare yourself for another disappointing season.
The Astros didn’t make any moves this offseason that turned heads nor did they add any talent that could help them compete. Their biggest acquisition was first baseman/designated hitter Carlos Pena, who had a down year in 2012 as he batted an average of .197 with 19 homeruns and 61 RBI. Pena isn’t the type of player who can help turn the team around, however he can add some pop to their offense and play a solid first base.
They picked up pitcher Phillip Humber who is well known for pitching the 21st perfect game in Major League history last season with the Chicago White Sox, however after his perfecto, Humber struggled as he finished the season with a 5-5 record and a 6.44 ERA.
They also acquired first baseman Chris Carter via trade from the A’s and there’s little doubt as to what Carter can do at the plate as he had 16 homeruns in 67 games with the A’s in 2012; however he is still young and can develop with this team, but he won’t have an immediate impact.
The AL West has easily become one of the best divisions in baseball with the Oakland A’s and Los Angeles Angels being the heavy weights of the division. Both teams are stacked with talent and will be serious contenders this season. Looking at the differences between all five teams in the AL West, the Astros appear to be the team that will finish in last place as they are the team with the least amount of talent.
As they enter the American League, the Astros will have to face not only the talented teams within their division, but also teams such as: the Detroit Tigers, New York Yankees, Boston Red Sox and Tampa Bay Rays. The pitching isn’t there for the Astros to hold off the power hitters in the AL, nor do they have players who can hit off of the great pitching staffs in this league. The Astros are a rebuilding team and losing seasons are just part of developing good teams for the future.
The last two years in particular have been painful for the Astros as they have had over 100 losses in both seasons. Since they are a struggling team and switching leagues, expect the Astros to have at least 90-95 losses this season. They enter a deep division and just won’t be able to compete within the American League. Unfortunately for the Astros and their fans, they will have to continue waiting on a winning season.