ANAHEIM, Calif. — Chemistry in baseball can be simple: Power mixed with speed generates explosive results. Using that formula, the Houston Astros devastated the ignominy of their past six seasons to produce the American League’s best record.
The Astros lead the league in both home runs (45) and stolen bases (36). That success has enabled Houston to not only become the first team in the American League to win 20 games this year but also match the club’s record for the best start after 31 games.
The Los Angeles Angels witnessed the Astros’ strengths during their recently completed four-game series. On Saturday night, second baseman Jose Altuve, first baseman Chris Carter and right fielder Colby Rasmus combined for three home runs and five RBIs in the first three innings of Houston’s 6-5 win.
Four Astros have at least five home runs. Third baseman Luis Valbuena’s team-leading seven homers enable him to share sixth place in the American League.
“We’ve got a lot of power throughout the lineup, and we’re going to come out and bang,” Astros catcher Hank Conger said. “The biggest thing is that it’s contagious. One guy gets rolling, then the next guy gets rolling. On a good day, we can put up some crooked numbers.”
On Thursday night, the Astros used their speed to rally for a 3-2 victory. With the bases loaded in the top of the ninth inning, Altuve beat the return throw on a double-play grounder to force center fielder Jake Marisnick home with the winning run.
Three Astros rank among the top five in the American League in steals. Altuve stole 11 bases to lead the league with New York Yankees center fielder Jacoby Ellsbury. Outfielder George Springer shares third place with 10 while Marisnick owns fifth place with nine.
“We’ve impacted games with our legs,” Houston manager A.J. Hinch said. “Our athleticism shines when we can be active on the bases.”
With a young and maturing core that includes Altuve, Marisnick and Springer, the Astros are beginning to shine.
“I and some other guys had some time last year that helped in our development,” Marisnick said. “Now, we can just go out and play, and have fun. You’re starting to see that this year.”