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5 keys for Astros to find their groove
- Updated: May 23, 2016
HOUSTON — With a three-game series against another first-place team looming — the Orioles come to Minute Maid Park beginning Tuesday — the Astros are still searching for answers. At 17-28, they’re in last place in the American League West after getting swept by the Rangers, and they have serious questions on the mound and in the lineup.
Fortunately for the Astros, there’s still time to turn their season around, but June is approaching. If they’re not in contention a month from now, they could be sellers at the Aug. 1 non-waiver Trade Deadline, which would mean conceding the playoffs. They’re not ready to do that yet, but here’s a look at five things that must change for Houston to get back into the mix.
1. Straighten out Dallas Keuchel The reigning AL Cy Young Award winner hasn’t won since April 15, going 0-5 with a 7.78 ERA in his past seven starts. He’s struggled with command, and his velocity is down a tad. The Astros were banking on another big season from the lefty, and they hoping the rest of the rotation would fall in line. While Mike Fiers, Doug Fister and Collin McHugh (first start notwithstanding) have been competitive, Houston can’t win without Keuchel setting the tone and winning games.
2. Spark the bottom of the lineup Second baseman Jose Altuve is putting himself in the AL Most Valuable …
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