The Astros are chasing their second straight sweep Sunday, and there's a lot on the line: first place, a five-game win streak, and a real chance to make a statement.
Coming off a sweep against the Angels, the Astros came into this high-pressure series against the Rangers hot and ready. After two straight wins against the Rangers and extending their winning streak to five games, Sunday is an opportunity to push that streak to six and lock in back-to-back sweeps. They're also now first in the AL West and continue to solidify the lead.
After a rocky first half of the season, the Astros look like a different team, truly an incredible comeback after being one of the worst teams in the league back in the spring. A few months ago, nobody would have guessed they'd be playing meaningful August baseball with a division lead on the line, but here they are with no signs of slowing down.
Here is what to expect from Sunday's matchup:
Peter Lambert and Kumar Rocker.
Peter Lambert has been one of the most reliable arms for the Astros' rotation this season. They've had to navigate countless injuries and rocky performances, causing some serious wear and tear on the bullpen, but Peter Lambert has consistently given them length and consistent performances.
The Astros' right-hander is going into Sunday's game with an 8-5 record, a 3.06 ERA, 103 innings pitched, and 100 strikeouts, per MLB. This would be a great opportunity for Lambert to continue doing what he's been doing best, giving them length and consistency, especially after the wear and tear the bullpen experienced Saturday night. Completing the sweep would be huge.
But who is he up against?
Kumar Rocker.
Rocker is currently 4-8 with a 4.03 ERA, 102.2 innings pitched, and 93 strikeouts, per MLB. Kumar has had a mixed season and is still working on consistency, but he's a solid pitcher nonetheless, and a promising young arm for the Rangers.
The Astros are on a hot streak, and everyone seems to be stepping up. Peña has been killing it at the plate and in the outfield, Yordan Alvarez is still Yordan Alvarez, and Isaac Paredes has been consistent as well as Walker. Completing the sweep this afternoon would be a true mark of a season that's been completely turned around in the best way possible.
