GEORGE SPRINGER

Atlanta’s 7-0 victory over Houston in Game 6 to win the World Series could mark the end of an era for the Astros.

Atlanta’s 7-0 win over Houston in Game 6 to win the World Series could mark the end of an era for the Astros.

Three weeks ago, eleven Major League Baseball <a href="https://www.mlb.com/news/2021-mlb-playoff-expert-predictions" target="_blank">pundits made predictions</a> for the postseason. Five said the Astros would fall in the American League Division Series. Five others said the team’s last stop would be in the AL Championship Series. Only one predicted the Astros would make it to the World Series.

The pairings for the baseball playoffs are all set.

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Whatever the reason you’re here, whether you’re honest-to-goodness house hunting, you’re a die-hard Astros fanatic, you’re searching for images to tack to your dream house vision board, or you just need something to gawk at to pass the time cooped up indoors, enjoy a virtual tour of this Houston-area home.

Bo Bichette thumped a leadoff homer in the first inning and singled in the tiebreaking run in the seventh, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. hit his 42nd homer, and the Toronto Blue Jays held off the skidding New York Yankees 6-4 for their eighth straight win.

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. hit his 41st home run and the streaking Toronto Blue Jays knocked the slumping Yankees out of the AL’s top wild-card spot, beating New York 6-3.

Rays rookie Wander Franco has reached base safely in 36 straight games.

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. hit his 40th homer, Marcus Semien went deep twice and the Toronto Blue Jays beat the New York Yankees 8-0 for their fifth straight win.

The Toronto Blue Jays have won four in a row entering their big series this week in New York against the Yankees.

Shohei Ohtani pitched six innings of three-hit ball to win his third consecutive start, and he also doubled and scored an early run in the Los Angeles Angels’ 6-3 victory over the Toronto Blue Jays.

Shohei Ohtani hit his major league-leading 38th home run this season, but the Toronto Blue Jays hit it out of the park four times, including two from George Springer and a grand slam by Teoscar Hernandez, to defeat the Los Angeles Angels 10-2.

Max Scherzer makes his second start for the Los Angeles Dodgers when they visit the red-hot Philadelphia Phillies in a potential playoff preview Tuesday night.

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The San Diego Padres and Washington will resume their game after it was suspended because of a shooting outside Nationals Park.

Two-way star Shohei Ohtani is back on the mound, taking on Kevin Gausman and the Giants at Angel Stadium.

Three of baseball’s best pitchers are hurting.

Reigning AL Cy Young Award winner Shane Bieber won’t throw for at least two weeks because of a right shoulder strain, an injury that will further test Cleveland’s pitching depth.

Jose Altuve led off the game with a home run, rookie Luis Garcia earned his fifth straight win and the Houston Astros beat Toronto 6-3, finishing the Blue Jays’ first homestand of the season in Buffalo.

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. keyed a career-best four-hit outing with his major league-leading 17th home run and the Toronto Blue Jays celebrated the return to their temporary Buffalo home with a 5-1 win over the Miami Marlins.

Francisco Mejía hit a tiebreaking, two-run single during a seven-run burst in the 11th inning and the Tampa Bay Rays won their 11th straight game, outlasting the Toronto Blue Jays 14-8.

Albert Pujols wants to hook on with a new team and play first base.

Blue Jays outfielder George Springer is not expected to be ready to return to Toronto’s lineup when his stint on the 10-day injured list ends May 13.

Athletics left-hander Jesús Luzardo will be off the mound for a while.

Athletics left-hander Jesús Luzardo will be off the mound for a while.

Merrill Kelly starts for the Arizona Diamondbacks when they host Fernando Tatis Jr. and the Padres following a dominant pitching performance in a doubleheader at Atlanta.

Jacob deGrom of the Mets is 1-1 with a 0.45 ERA, 35 strikeouts and three walks in 20 innings going into a homestand opener against Washington and Erick Fedde.

David Fletcher had a two-run single in the 11th inning and the Los Angeles Angels beat Toronto 7-5 in the first regular-season game played at the Blue Jays’ spring training ballpark.

The Toronto Blue Jays are set to become the first team in Major League Baseball history to play home openers in three different cities over three consecutive seasons.

The Houston Astros open the 2021 season in Oakland, following a losing 2020 shortened regular season, then an exciting playoff run in which the ‘Stros nearly came back down 3-0 vs. the Rays.

^ Keep Houston Press Free Support Us LocalCommunityJournalismI Support Support the independent voice of Houston and help keep the future of Houston Press free. Lance McCullers' inking a five-year contract extension on Wednesday finally gave us a bit of good news, and made us feel a little better about our city. Now, let's hope that, since McCullers' deal is done....Hopefully, Carlos Correa is nextReportedly, the two sides are talking. Also, like McCullers, Correa has expressed a sincere desire to remain an Astros for his career. Also, like McCullers, Correa has spent large chunks of his career, thus far, on the injured list with various maladies.

The Padres said Tatis had discomfort in his non-throwing left shoulder and would be re-evaluated on Wednesday. Corbin Burnes turned in 4 2/3 innings, striking out six while allowing two runs on three hits. Jon Lester allowed one run and three hits in 3 2/3 innings in his second start of the spring for Washington. He gave up five hits, hit two batters and struck out three. PADRES 5, REDS 4MacKenzie Gore worked 3 2/3 innings in his third start for San Diego, allowing two runs on three hits.

Trevor Williams went five innings in his fourth start, allowing a run on three hits. Austin Gomber made his fourth start for Colorado, allowing two runs on three hits, striking out four in 4 1/3 innings. Dylan Cease made his second start, allowing three hits and three walks in 3 2/3 scoreless innings. Matthew Boyd made his fourth start, allowing one run on four hits and a walk in four innings, striking out five. Tyler Anderson went five innings in his fourth start for Pittsburgh, giving up one run on two hits.

“We’re just talking.”The Mets obtained Lindor from Cleveland in January, and he's signed for this season at $22.3 million. Canning now has 13 strikeouts in 7 2/3 innings. The two-time Cy Young Award winner has permitted three hits in 8 2/3 innings with 16 strikeouts and a walk. Nola has given up 15 hits in 8 2/3 innings, seeing his ERA rise to 10.38. Kyle Wright made his fourth start, giving up two runs on three hits and two walks in 2 2/3 innings.

The reigning World Series champions already had a pair of Cy Young Award winners in Clayton Kershaw and David Price. Darvish has twice finished runner-up for a Cy Young Award, including last season when he was 8-3 with a 2.01 ERA in 12 starts. Lester is a three-time World Series champion, winning twice with Boston and once with the Cubs. He’s part of a rotation led by three-time Cy Young Award winner Max Scherzer, 2019 World Series MVP Stephen Strasburg and lefty Patrick Corbin. Bradley was a Gold Glove winner in 2018 when the Red Sox won the World Series.

With a good young rotation and a deep lineup, the Braves are looking for their first World Series title since 1995. While San Diego is much improved, World Series MVP Corey Seager and Los Angeles are well-positioned for a run at another championship. The last time the All-Stars descended on Atlanta, Yankees shortstop Derek Jeter had three hits and two RBIs in the AL's 6-3 victory at Turner Field in 2000. AdTHURSDAY, AUG. 12New York Yankees at Chicago White Sox: Major League Baseball comes to Iowa. SUNDAY, SEPT. 26Houston Astros at Oakland Athletics: The AL West rivals close out their season series with Oakland's home finale.

Bauer wound up pitching three scoreless innings with the creative approach, striking out three while allowing two hits and a walk. Known for speaking his mind and going his own way, Bauer said he regularly shuts one eye during bullpen sessions and other workouts. METS 6, ASTROS 1 (6)Jacob deGrom pitched two scoreless innings in his spring debut, striking out three and allowing one hit. AdBLUE JAYS 7, PHILLIES 1 (7)Newcomer Tanner Roark made his first start for Toronto, allowing one hit in two scoreless innings. Jorge López threw three scoreless innings with three strikeouts.

The 2018 AL Rookie of the Year is off to a strong start this spring on both sides. PHILLIES 3, PIRATES 0Bryce Harper homered on his first swing of spring training, launching a opposite-field drive to left. Chad Kuhl made his second start for Pittsburgh, allowing two runs on three hits. Brad Keller worked three innings in the start for the Royals and allowed a run on four hits and two walks. BRAVES 4, TWINS 0 (7)Kyle Wright fared much better in his second start for Atlanta, allowing one hit in three shutout innings with two strikeouts.

AdJazz Chisholm of the Marlins and Adam Haseley of the Phillies did even better — they led off games with home runs. Mancini took off his helmet to acknowledge a standing ovation that included the fans, the Orioles and the Pirates. Marco Gonzales made his first spring start for Seattle, allowing two hits and an unearned run in two innings. Center fielder Trent Grisham, coming off his first Gold Glove last season, doubled and scored a run for San Diego. Top prospect Jeter Downs had a two-run home run and RBI single, while Michael Chavis hit a solo shot.

^ Keep Houston Press Free Support Us LocalCommunityJournalismI Support Support the independent voice of Houston and help keep the future of Houston Press free. Support UsThe days of 100-win seasons are likely over for this window of Houston Astros baseball. With Dallas Keuchel and Justin Verlander in 2017; Verlander and Gerrit Cole in 2018; Verlander, Cole and Zack Greinke in 2019. They will likely need 13 to 17 wins out of each of these guys to contend in 2021. Pressly enters 2021 as the closer, once again, but the support from some of the young arms is now experienced support.

While this past year has been perhaps especially rough with the departures, there have certainly been other top stars who have left Houston before that. The Rockets traded McGrady in 2010 to the New York Knicks in a 3-team deal. Midway through the 1987 season, the Rockets traded Sampson and Steve Harris for Sleepy Floyd and Joe Barry Carroll. Moses Malone - 1982A two-time NBA MVP with the Houston Rockets, Moses Malone left in 1982 as a restricted free agent. Houston traded the aging winger to Sporting Kansas City before the 2016 season, and Davis retired after that season.

(AP Photo/Ashley Landis)HOUSTON – The Houston Astros are back for the 2021 season after a surprising run to Game 7 of the 2020 ALCS despite a losing regular season. Much of the 2021 Astros are set, but there are a handful of positions up for grabs. Myles StrawThe Astros versatile speedster started one-third of the season in center field last year, setting up as the incumbent for the job. Pedro LeonPossibly the most exciting of the Astros prospects, Houston signed Pedro Leon out of Cuba this offseason. Baez was strong again last season, pitching to a 3.18 ERA as one of LA’s set up pitchers.

FILE - Toronto Blue Jays' Rowdy Tellez signs autographs for fans before a spring training baseball game against the Philadelphia Phillies in Dunedin, Fla., in this Thursday, Feb. 28, 2019, file photo. The Toronto Blue Jays will play their first two homestands of the season at their spring training facility in Dunedin, Florida, because of Canadian government restrictions during the pandemic. The Blue Jays cited the ongoing Canada-U.S. border closure in making the difficult decision." “The alternatives for our season lie with some combination of Dunedin, Buffalo and Toronto," Shapiro said. The Blue Jays played home games during the shortened 2020 season in Buffalo and were 17-9 at Sahlen Field, home of their Buffalo Bisons Triple-A farm team.

FILE - In this Feb. 18, 2014, file photo, Atlanta Braves batting helmets sits on the field under a shining sun during a spring training baseball workout in Kissimmee, Fla. Major League Baseball revamped its spring training exhibition schedule because of the pandemic, cutting travel for Florida-based teams in an effort to avoid the novel coronavirus, the league announced Friday, Feb. 12, 2021. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon, File)NEW YORK – Completing the 2020 season required MLB to rewrite its rule book. Offers by MLB to delay opening day were rejected by the players' association last month, defaulting the league into an on-time start. The Grapefruit League schedule was reworked to limit travel, and clubs won’t play exhibitions against local colleges — usually a spring staple. MLB has claimed billions in losses after playing the 2020 season almost entirely without fans, and free agents were met by a sluggish market this winter.

^ Keep Houston Press Free Support Us LocalCommunityJournalismI Support Support the independent voice of Houston and help keep the future of Houston Press free. Support UsAs long as this last year has felt, it's almost time for spring training again. As spring training approaches, here are a few names to watch early this season. It's more likely that Straw is a stopgap measure until the Astros can find a permanent replacement in center field. Tucker needs to continue to mature and turn into the "next" Springer for the Astros in the outfield.

All rights reserved)FILE - Philadelphia Phillies' J.T. The Philadelphia Phillies and two-time All-Star catcher J.T. Realmuto agreed on a $115.5 million, five-year contract, two people familiar with the deal told The Associated Press. Both people spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity Tuesday, Jan. 26, 2021, because Realmutos deal was pending a successful physical. Realmuto and the Philadelphia Phillies finalized their $115.5 million, five-year contract on Friday.

Springer and the Blue Jays agreed last week to a team-record $150 million, six-year contract. The Blue Jays swept in two games during a first-round series by the eventual AL champion Rays. Besides Springer, Toronto also has signed right-handers Kirby Yates and Tyler Chatwood in the past week. Shapiro insisted the Blue Jays still have flexibility to add payroll, likely to strengthen the rotation, but said “the bulk of our heavy lifting is done.”Springer split time between center field and right with the Astros, but is expected to become a fixture in center for the Blue Jays. “This is about the Blue Jays,” Springer said.

Shortstop Marcus Semien agreed to an $18 million, one-year contract with the Toronto Blue Jays, a person familiar with the negotiations told The Associated Press. (AP Photo/Jack Dempsey, File)TORONTO, ONT – Shortstop Marcus Semien agreed to an $18 million, one-year contract with the Toronto Blue Jays, a person familiar with the negotiations told The Associated Press. Semien will become the second star and fourth free agent added by the Blue Jays during a slow offseason amid the novel coronavirus pandemic. The Blue Jays were swept in two games by the AL champion Rays in a first-round series. It is not clear where the Blue Jays will play home games when the 2021 season starts.

FILE - Philadelphia Phillies' J.T. The Philadelphia Phillies and two-time All-Star catcher J.T. Realmuto agreed on a $115.5 million, five-year contract, two people familiar with the deal told The Associated Press. Realmuto agreed Tuesday on a $115.5 million, five-year contract, two people familiar with the deal told The Associated Press. Realmuto gets $20 million next season, of which $10 million is deferred, with $5 million each payable in 2026 and 2027.

Brantley has agreed to a $32 million, two-year contract with the Astros, a person familiar with the deal told The Associated Press. (AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez, File)HOUSTON – An erroneous report saying Michael Brantley had agreed to a contract with the Toronto Blue Jays had the outfielder fielding goodbye texts from his Houston Astros teammates most of Wednesday morning. By the afternoon those same teammates were sending him notes of congratulations and welcoming him back after he agreed to a $32 million, two-year contract with the Astros. “There were a lot of a lot of mixed emotions, obviously, in a small timeframe," Brantley said Monday. He earned $5,555,555 in prorated pay from a $15 million salary as part of a $32 million, two-year deal that included a $2 million signing bonus.

Springer became the most prominent among baseballs free agents to reach an agreement, a $150 million, six-year contract with the Toronto Blue Jays, a person familiar with the negotiations told The Associated Press. (AP Photo/Tony Gutierrez, File)TORONTO, ONT – All-Star outfielder George Springer finalized his $150 million, six-year contract with the Toronto Blue Jays on Saturday, becoming the most prominent free agent to reach an agreement this offseason. He would get $50,000 each time he makes an All-Star team, is World Series MVP, earns a Gold Glove or a Silver Slugger. The Blue Jays reached the postseason and was swept 2-0 by the eventual AL champion Rays in the first round. It remains unclear whether the Blue Jays will be allowed to return home for 2021 season.

^ Keep Houston Press Free Support Us LocalCommunityJournalismI Support Support the independent voice of Houston and help keep the future of Houston Press free. ), Tuesday night reports just after news of Springer's deal hit Twitter suggested Brantley might join his now former teammate in Toronto. Fortunately, those rumors turned out to be inaccurate and on Wednesday Brantley's deal was widely reported. In 2020's COVID-shortened season, Brantley hit .300 with an OPS of .840. With the departure of Springer, Brantley's signing looms large for a team set to lose two-thirds of its starting lineup plus key backup Josh Reddick in one offseason.

^ Keep Houston Press Free Support Us LocalCommunityJournalismI Support Support the independent voice of Houston and help keep the future of Houston Press free. The financial reality is that the Astros were strapped with the kinds of contracts that just made signing Springer an impossibility. At their peak, few teams dared run on the Astros outfield and batters understood if it was even barely within reach of Springer, he was likely to catch it. Springer DingersForget all the huge homers he hit in his career as an Astro, the very term "Springer Dinger" is simply delightful. Playoff GreatnessAnd speaking of clutch play, Springer may very well be one of the greatest MLB playoff hitters of all time.

George Strait takes on Cardi B's 'WAP'...sort of By now, we've all listened to WAP in some variation or another — but never quite like this.

Outfielder George Springer, who spent the past seven seasons in Houston, will now take his talents north of the border and play for the Toronto Blue Jays. His mega-deal is reportedly for six years for $150 million after the Blue Jays remained aggressive in talks to land the All-Star outfielder. Springer, 31, was a big piece of the Astros playoff success beginning in 2015. In all, Springer has delivered big results in the playoffs belting 19 postseason home runs. In his career, Springer has hit .265 with 14 homers and 32 RBIs in the shortened 2020 season, earning a prorated $7,777,778 from a $21 million salary.

A slow free agent market saw only 21 of 181 players who became free agents following the World Series enter Tuesday with finalized agreements. Toronto has been linked to most of the top free agents this winter, but now has the one it wanted most. It's not clear where the Blue Jays will begin the 2021 season. The Blue Jays have had to overpay free agents to play in Canada before, but the Springer contract will be just the second $100 million-plus deal in team history. Vernon Wells and the Blue Jays agreed to a $126 million, seven-year contract in 2006.

That means the Rockets will have even less room to maneuver than they would have if the cap number had increased. Free agency is set to start in a week and the Rockets probably won't even have a fully assembled roster before December. LocalCommunityJournalismI Support Support the independent voice of Houston and help keep the future of Houston Press free. On one hand, this could deal a serious blow to the Rockets' chances right now. Whatever the case, it is going to be a very fast and very awkward offseason for the Rockets.

It was an ugly chapter for the Astros that ended with Osuna's injury after just four appearances in 2020. Springer given qualifying offer, but not Brantley. Joe Smith, who opted out of the 2020 season due to the pandemic, should return as well, but the Astros will be in search of more relief arms going forward. LocalCommunityJournalismI Support Support the independent voice of Houston and help keep the future of Houston Press free. Christian Javier, who was one of the Astros best starters in 2020, was named a finalist for Rookie of the Year.

These famous Japanese sandwiches are coming to Houston You'll have to act quickly to get your hands on a Sandoitchi Japanese sandwich.

Actor Eddie Hassell, 30, killed in Texas shooting Hassell's best known for his role in NBC's “Surface” and the 2010 film “The Kids Are All...

If that weren't enough, they lost both Justin Verlander and Yordan Alvarez along with closer Roberto Osuna to season ending injuries. Here are the winners and losers from a wild and surprising season. He was also the Astros best player in this virus-shortened season. Young PitchingThe Astros entered the season understanding they would have to rely on some young arms, particularly out of the bullpen, after the offseason losses. He was their best hitter and continues to be one of the best defensive infielders in the game.

For the second straight night, the Astros won in an elimination game against Tampa Bay 4-3, this time forcing a Game 6 on Friday after going down 3-1 in this best-of-seven series. Unlike Game 4, however, this one began and ended in dramatic fashion with bookend home runs by two of the team's biggest stars. Sandwiched in between was some incredible pitching by both teams in a game that was driven entirely by the long ball. Well, Houston still isn't good for guys named Nick Anderson and the walk off home run was against Rays reliever Nick Anderson (no relation). The Astros led off the game with a solo shot from George Springer, his nineteenth postseason home run.

George Springer had two more dingers in the Astros win over the A's. On Wednesday, the Astros can close it out with a three-game sweep and prepare to meet the winner of the Rays-Yankees matchup. Jim Crane needs to open up his wallet for George Springer. With two home runs, Springer now has the second most postseason home runs in history at Dodger Stadium. With his impending free agency, it seems clearer than ever that the Astros should do whatever they must to retain him.

In 2017, the Astros went into the postseason with great hope and a newly acquired Justin Verlander. In 2018, they went into the postseason with experience from the previous year and, again, great hope, even if they were a little banged up. #ForTheH pic.twitter.com/TmDcLupDIn — Houston Astros (@astros) September 26, 2020Still, with a football team in town that's 0-3, who am I to quibble over how or why our baseball team is celebrating a playoff berth, right? The condensed nature of this postseason, with fewer off days than a normal postseason, probably won't help much. Sadly, the Astros offseason carries far more intrigue than anything taking place on the field for them this postseason.

So, this past Sunday could very well be George Springer's last game in an Astro uniform in Minute Maid Park, as the 31-year-old outfielder is set to hit free agency after the season is over. With Mookie Betts signing a gargantuan, nearly $400 million extension with the Dodgers, Springer is likely the top outfielder on the market. There is little doubt that Astros fans would want Springer back. Jose Altuve is the franchise icon, Alex Bregman is their best player, but George Springer is the heart and soul of the team. What better way to close the gap than to get the guy who won a World Series MVP against the Dodgers in 2017?

Today were featuring minority-owned businesses in the Katy area:Lone Star Bike is a brand new bicycle repair shop that specializes in repairing, upgrading and servicing road, mountain, cruise, urban and vintage bikes. Address: 23530 Kingsland Boulevard Suite 100Phone: (832) 844-1470This burger restaurant in Katy has a five-star rating on Yelp and Facebook. Text: (786) 302-7612This tire dealer and repair shop in Katy has a five-star Facebook rating. Address: 18703 W Little YorkPhone: (281) 656-8559Since 2006, this Katy shop has specialized in designing, manufacturing and installing contemporary modern kitchens, closets, bathrooms and more. Address: 21815 Katy Freeway Suite C-106Phone: (832) 291-3911

It feels like the season just ended, and considering the Astros played on the very last possible day of the year in game seven of the World Series, it kinda did. Now, as we race towards opening day, there are questions the Astros must answer, some of which could alter the franchise on and off the field. When with the MLB hand down its findings and punishment from the Astros sign stealing investigation? But considering the sign stealing and the Brandon Taubman situation before that, it would be surprising if Luhnow doesn't face serious league punishment. No doubt there are those in baseball who want MLB to throw the book at the Astros and Luhnow in particular.

This news came down as rumors began to swirl that the Astros could move on from shortstop Carlos Correa. Here we go....Gerrit Cole earned his generational wealthMan, we all knew Gerrit Cole was gonna get paid, but NINE years... and $324 MILLION... Look, the Astros will never, ever be in the "nine year contract" sweepstakes, when it comes to free agency. In 2017, the Astros signed Brian McCann, Josh Reddick, and Carlos Beltran, and eventually traded for Verlander. So, I will assume, for now, the chalk is that Correa will be with the Astros when spring training arrives in February.

According to Ken Rosenthal from The Athletic, the Astros have looked into a potential trade of Carlos Correa to help free up salary, perhaps even in an effort to retain Gerrit Cole. After Strasberg resigned with the Washington Nationals for $245 million, it is likely Cole will seek a salary of $300 million or more. There are also those who believe that Correa, who has been a stellar defensive shortstop, is playing out of position. Still, moving Correa would need to bring a significant return given his age, experience and obvious skillset. The Astros, in addition to holes in the starting lineup, will need to address free agency in the bullpen as well.

Ezra Shaw/Getty ImagesHOUSTON - Three Astros players were recognized on Thursday when Louisville Sluggers announced the 2019 Silver Slugger Award winners, which honors the top offensive players at each position in each league. Third baseman Alex Bregman and outfielder George Springer both received their Silver Slugger Awards as Astros. Right-handed pitcher Zack Greinke, who team traded for during the season to bolster the Astros' pitching rotation, took him his second Silver Slugger Award for his time with the Diamondbacks. There is no Silver Slugger Award in the American League because pitchers do not take at-bats. Springer hit .292 this season while coming through with 39 homers, 96 RBI and 20 doubles to win his second Silver Slugger Award.

Ezra Shaw/Getty ImagesHOUSTON - Three Astros players were recognized on Thursday when Louisville Sluggers announced the 2019 Silver Slugger Award winners, which honors the top offensive players at each position in each league. Third baseman Alex Bregman and outfielder George Springer both received their Silver Slugger Awards as Astros. Right-handed pitcher Zack Greinke, who team traded for during the season to bolster the Astros' pitching rotation, took him his second Silver Slugger Award for his time with the Diamondbacks. There is no Silver Slugger Award in the American League because pitchers do not take at-bats. Springer hit .292 this season while coming through with 39 homers, 96 RBI and 20 doubles to win his second Silver Slugger Award.

Let's look at the six biggest player decisions they will need to make this offseason. Gerrit ColeLet's start with the biggest free agent name on the list and get this over with quickly. The Astros aren't going to pay that for a variety of reasons, so they are going to lose him, unfortunately. George SpringerEven though Springer is up for arbitration, it is his last such negotiation before free agency. All options are certainly on the table, but expect the Astros to push off any big contract decisions for Correa until next offseason.

Houston - We have waited patiently all day for tonight's Game 7 between the Astros and Nationals. The Astros need to set the tone and attack Scherzer early and strike first in the opening inning. I trust the bullpen but Greinke needs to deliver. They need to play relaxed just like they did in game six that produced a win and evened this World Series at three games a piece. They need Trea Turner to produce in the leadoff spot and rely on guys like Rendon, Soto, and Zimmerman to get after Greinke early in the game.

HOUSTON - Twenty bars and restaurants in the Houston area are ready to pour Astros outfielder George Springer's Championship Reserve beer, but they can only serve it if the Astros are able to clinch the World Series title Wednesday evening. If the Astros win, the team will also be celebrating with the limited-edition beer inside the locker room. In early October, Springer served as an honorary brewmaster, helping to create the Budweiser Championship Reserve. Springer visited the Houston brewery and worked alongside Anheuser Busch brewmaster Rich Cooper. You can find Springer's beer at the following locations:Christian's Tailgate Bar, 2820 White Oak Drive.

#TakeItBack @astros @abc13houston Bob Slovak (@BobSlovak13) October 30, 2019Houston Native Anthony Rendon with two run shot to put Nats up 5-2. HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) -- The Houston Astros still have a shot at their second World Series title. They'll just have to do it in a winner-take-all Game 7 against the Washington Nationals. He became just the second manager in World Series history to be tossed from a game. Sean Doolittle relieved Strasburg, shutting the door for a Washington win.With the 7-2 win, the Nationals forced Game 7.

#Astros #TakeItBack #WorldSeries Greg Bailey (@GregBailey13) October 28, 2019Carlos remember that time I predicted your World Series home? #astros pic.twitter.com/RYLKhBq0yd David Nuo (@DavidNunoABC13) October 28, 2019Cole is off the charts (again). Truly elite #WorldSeries #Astros #TakeItBack Greg Bailey (@GregBailey13) October 28, 201915 career postseason HR for Springer. Brantley and Alex Bregman both sent balls to the warning track in the field, just short of home runs that resulted in outs. It cut the Astros lead to 4-1.The Nationals seemed to be gaining some momentum after Cole walked Ryan Zimmerman.

#Astros #TakeItBack #WorldSeries Greg Bailey (@GregBailey13) October 28, 2019Carlos remember that time I predicted your World Series home? #astros pic.twitter.com/RYLKhBq0yd David Nuo (@DavidNunoABC13) October 28, 2019Cole is off the charts (again). Truly elite #WorldSeries #Astros #TakeItBack Greg Bailey (@GregBailey13) October 28, 201915 career postseason HR for Springer. Brantley and Bregman both sent balls to the warning track in the field, just short of home runs that resulted in outs. It cut the Astros lead to 4-1.The Nationals seemed to be gaining some momentum after Cole walked Ryan Zimmerman.

#astros pic.twitter.com/RYLKhBq0yd David Nuo (@DavidNunoABC13) October 28, 2019Cole is off the charts (again). Truly elite #WorldSeries #Astros #TakeItBack Greg Bailey (@GregBailey13) October 28, 2019Yordan 3 for 3. Brantley and Bregman both sent balls to the warning track in the field, just short of home runs that resulted in outs. It cut the Astros lead to 4-1.The Nationals seemed to be gaining some momentum after Cole walked Ryan Zimmerman. The Nationals hope he's available for a Game 7, if necessary.RELATED:The World Series is set to return to Houston on Tuesday for a Game 6.

WASHINGTON, D.C. (KTRK) -- After a dominant Game 4 victory in the World Series, the Houston Astros are riding all the momentum going into Game 5.George Springer fell down 0-2 in the count, but fought back and was walked by Joe Ross to start the night. Jose Altuve hit into a double play to erase the lead-off walk. It was announced Sunday afternoon that Max Scherzer was scratched due to neck spasms.RELATED:When speaking to the media, Scherzer said he could barely lift his arm and that it's impossible for him to pitch right now. The Nationals hope he's available for a Game 7, if necessary.RELATED:The World Series is set to return to Houston on Tuesday for a Game 6. Whoever wins Sunday night will be hoping to celebrate on Tuesday.

WASHINGTON, D.C. (KTRK) -- After a dominant Game 4 victory in the World Series, the Houston Astros are riding all the momentum going into Game 5.George Springer fell down 0-2 in the count, but fought back and was walked by Joe Ross to start the night. Jose Altuve hit into a double play to erase the lead-off walk. It was announced Sunday afternoon that Max Scherzer was scratched due to neck spasms.RELATED:When speaking to the media, Scherzer said he could barely lift his arm and that it's impossible for him to pitch right now. The Nationals hope he's available for a Game 7, if necessary.RELATED:The World Series is set to return to Houston on Tuesday for a Game 6. Whoever wins Sunday night will be hoping to celebrate on Tuesday.

8-1 win to tie the #WorldSeries2019 #TakeItBack Greg Bailey (@GregBailey13) October 27, 2019EMBED >More News Videos Mattress Mack said he's still expecting to distribute lots of free mattresses after the World Series. Brantley followed Altuve's footsteps with a blooper to centerfield.Bregman continued the Astros' momentum with a line-drive single to left field that brought Altuve home to give the Astros a 1-0 lead. Marisnick successfully stole second base in the midst of Springer's at-bat. It led to Bregman completely silencing Nationals park with a grand slam that was rocked near the left field pole to extend the Astros lead to 8-1. A strikeout from Tucker ended the Astros' monstrous inning.Hector Rondon entered in the seventh, and Victor Robles reached base on a single with one out.

Chirinos HR and Bregman slam, plus gutty bullpen and a little #Astros defense. 8-1 win to tie the #WorldSeries2019 #TakeItBack Greg Bailey (@GregBailey13) October 27, 2019EMBED >More News Videos Mattress Mack said he's still expecting to distribute lots of free mattresses after the World Series. Brantley followed Altuve's footsteps with a blooper to centerfield.Bregman continued the Astros' momentum with a line-drive single to left field that brought Altuve home to give the Astros a 1-0 lead. Marisnick successfully stole second base in the midst of Springer's at-bat. It led to Bregman completely silencing Nationals park with a grand slam that was rocked near the left field pole to extend the Astros lead to 8-1.

With Game 4 essentially being another do-or-die game for the Astros, A.J. Brantley followed Altuve's footsteps with a blooper to centerfield.Bregman continued the Astros' momentum with a line-drive single to left field that brought Altuve home to give the Astros a 1-0 lead. Marisnick successfully stole second base in the midst of Springer's at-bat. It led to Bregman completely silencing Nationals park with a grand slam that was rocked near the left field pole to extend the Astros lead to 8-1. It was just the second grand slam in Astros postseason history.Gurriel, Correa and Marisnick were all walked in the seventh and it was the fifth walk of the seventh.

EMBED >More News Videos Mattress Mack said he's still expecting to distribute lots of free mattresses after the World Series. With Game 4 essentially being another do-or-die game for the Astros, A.J. Hinch and company seem confident in the rookie pitcher's abilities.Altuve started the night with a single that just got past Trea Turner after George Springer struck out in lead-off. Brantley followed Altuve's footsteps with a blooper to centerfield.Bregman continued the Astros' momentum with a line-drive single to left field that brought Altuve home to give the Astros a 1-0 lead. In what is a bullpen day for the Astros in Game 4, another strong outing will be needed to tie the series.An Astros win Saturday night would guarantee the World Series returning to Houston for at least a Game 6.

The Astros fell in a massive 0-2 hole in the World Series losing 12-3 to the Washington Nationals Wednesday night at Minute Maid Park. The Astros weren't exactly world beaters in that category during the season, but they weren't terrible either. Verlander became the first pitcher in Major League history to lose his first five starts in the World Series. It's ironic considering in Game 1 George Springer hit his fifth straight homer in a World Series game, breaking a record previous held by Lou Gehrig and Reggie Jackson. Only three teams in major league history have lost the first two games at home and came back to win the World Series.

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) -- How do top MLB players work out?Here's a hint: a lot harder than you or I do!Ben Fairchild trains dozens of professional athletes, including both Astros star George Springer and Nationals star Anthony Rendon, at his Memorial area facility, Fairchild Sports Performance. "These guys were born to play at this level and I think it would be so foolish to think we have anything to do with that," explained Fairchild. "Fairchild trains athletes of all ages. "In professional baseball terms, George being 30 years old, Anthony being 29, they're sort of middle aged," he explained. "Exercises are designed to extend careers by focusing on mobility and sequencing.And, there's another reason Fairchild is in such high demand.

The Houston Astros took on the Washington Nationals during Game 1 of the World Series at Minute Maid Park in Houston on Oct. 22, 2019. HOUSTON - Even with nearly unbeatable Gerrit Cole on the mound to start the game, the Houston Astros dropped game one of the World Series, 5-4, to the Washington Nationals. In 4 career postseason starts at Minute Maid Park, he has struck out 43 batters while issuing just 4 walks. 5 - Consecutive World Series games in which George Springer has homered in. 10 - Extra base hits for Springer as a leadoff hitter, which ties Lou Brock for the most in World Series history.

The Astros came back from a Game 1 loss to the New York Yankees in the ALCS to beat them in six games. They will need to do the same thing in the World Series as they fell to the Nationals 5-4 Tuesday. Meanwhile, the Astros worked their way back into the game with two runs off Nats relievers. Starters StruggleRelated Stories Street Closures in Houston For the World SeriesFor all the hoopla surrounding the starting pitching matchups in this series, Game 1 was a bit of a pitching dud. Springer Dinger RecordGeorge Springer's seventh inning home run gave him five straight World Series games with a long ball.

COLE'S TOP QUOTES DURING HIS POST GAME NEWS CONFERENCE"I felt like I wasn't crisp tonight. These are the two best teams in the world right now so you don't beat yourself up too much. "It's one of the two best teams in the world right now. JOSE ALTUVE'S TOP COMMENTS FROM HIS POST GAME INTERVIEW"I thought George hit the ball good in the 8th. GEORGE SPRINGER'S TOP POST GAME COMMENTS"We offensively passed the baton to the next guy a lot today and you have to give credit where credit is due."

2-0 #Astros #TakeItBack Greg Bailey (@GregBailey13) October 23, 2019#Astros give Cole a 2 run lead and theyve ignited the loudest crowd in baseball. #TakeItBack @abc13houston Bob Slovak (@BobSlovak13) October 23, 2019EMBED >More News Videos Houston Astros advance to World Series for 2nd time in 3 yearsEMBED >More News Videos As the 'Stros head into the 2019 World Series, we asked some of them if they had any rituals or superstitions before the game. HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) -- Despite a record-setting night by George Springer, the Astros fell to the Nationals 5-4 in Game 1 of the World Series Tuesday night.The Astros defense faced early trouble after Cole allowed a lead-off base hit by Trea Turner, who then stole second base. Michael Brantley took a strikeout, but during Alex Bregman's at-bat, Springer pounced on third base on a Scherzer wild pitch. The right-hander, who went seven innings, came into the game after winning 19 consecutive decisions over his last 25 starts.

2-0 #Astros #TakeItBack Greg Bailey (@GregBailey13) October 23, 2019#Astros give Cole a 2 run lead and theyve ignited the loudest crowd in baseball. 1st inning gets an A+#TakeItBack Greg Bailey (@GregBailey13) October 23, 2019Cole gives up monster shot to Zimmerman in 2nd. #Astros #TakeItBack Greg Bailey (@GregBailey13) October 23, 2019AJ is steaming. #Astros #TakeItBack Greg Bailey (@GregBailey13) October 23, 2019Nationals and Scherzer survive 4th. Michael Brantley took a strikeout, but during Alex Bregman's at-bat, Springer pounced on third base on a Scherzer wild pitch.

2-0 #Astros #TakeItBack Greg Bailey (@GregBailey13) October 23, 2019#Astros give Cole a 2 run lead and theyve ignited the loudest crowd in baseball. #Astros #TakeItBack Greg Bailey (@GregBailey13) October 23, 2019AJ is steaming. #Astros #TakeItBack Greg Bailey (@GregBailey13) October 23, 2019Nationals and Scherzer survive 4th. "The Astros and Washington Nationals, the National League champions, square off for Game 1 Tuesday night at Minute Maid Park.Houston sends in pitcher Gerrit Cole to start. Michael Brantley took a strikeout, but during Alex Bregman's at-bat, Springer pounced on third base on a Scherzer wild pitch.

2-0 #Astros #TakeItBack Greg Bailey (@GregBailey13) October 23, 2019#Astros give Cole a 2 run lead and theyve ignited the loudest crowd in baseball. 1st inning gets an A+#TakeItBack Greg Bailey (@GregBailey13) October 23, 2019Cole gives up monster shot to Zimmerman in 2nd. #Astros #TakeItBack Greg Bailey (@GregBailey13) October 23, 2019AJ is steaming. #Astros #TakeItBack Greg Bailey (@GregBailey13) October 23, 2019EMBED >More News Videos Houston Astros advance to World Series for 2nd time in 3 yearsEMBED >More News Videos As the 'Stros head into the 2019 World Series, we asked some of them if they had any rituals or superstitions before the game. "The Astros and Washington Nationals, the National League champions, square off for Game 1 Tuesday night at Minute Maid Park.Houston sends in pitcher Gerrit Cole to start.

2-0 #Astros #TakeItBack Greg Bailey (@GregBailey13) October 23, 2019#Astros give Cole a 2 run lead and theyve ignited the loudest crowd in baseball. 1st inning gets an A+#TakeItBack Greg Bailey (@GregBailey13) October 23, 2019Cole gives up monster shot to Zimmerman in 2nd. Yordan leading off @Astros 2nd. "The Astros and Washington Nationals, the National League champions, square off for Game 1 Tuesday night at Minute Maid Park.Houston sends in pitcher Gerrit Cole to start. Michael Brantley took a strikeout, but during Alex Bregman's at-bat, Springer pounced on third base on a Scherzer wild pitch.

EMBED >More News Videos Daniella said it is enjoyable to watch the hard work all of the Astros have put in throughout the years. HOUSTON, TEXAS (KTRK) -- It's always a family affair when the Astros win.From kids to wives, we can't get enough of seeing the players celebrate on the field with their loved ones.Catcher Robinson Chirino's son had a high-five for everyone after the big win. His jean jacket was bedazzled with orange and blue with their last name across the back.Jose Altuve once again had his daughter Melanie join him for the celebration on the field. He then carried her to greet Astros Hall of Famer Craig Biggio.Pitcher Brad Peacock posed for pictures with his infant son in his arms.Catcher Martin Maldonado carried his daughter on the field. She wore a sweater in support of her favorite player, her dad.George Springer was all smiles with Michael Brantley's kids before he found his parents and his wife Charlise.Justin Verlander's wife Kate Upton was all hugs after the big win.

Party with Champions: The best spots to watch the Astros World Series games in HoustonHouston Astros right fielder Josh Reddick (22), Houston Astros left fielder Michael Brantley (23) and Houston Astros center fielder George Springer (4) celebrate in the clubhouse after the Astros won the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park in Houston on Saturday, Oct. 19, 2019. less Houston Astros right fielder Josh Reddick (22), Houston Astros left fielder Michael Brantley (23) and Houston Astros center fielder George Springer (4) celebrate in the clubhouse after the Astros won the ... more Photo: Karen Warren/Staff Photographer Photo: Karen Warren/Staff Photographer Image 1 of / 310 Caption Close Party with Champions: The best spots to watch the Astros World Series games in Houston 1 / 310 Back to GalleryIts time for some world-class revelry after the Astros clinched the AL pennant. If you dont have an Astros World Series viewing spot locked down, weve lined up more than 20 perfect Houston bars to soak up the celebration. On HoustonChronicle.com: Astros: One swing, 'complete mayhem,' and the AL pennantFrom down-to-earth neighborhood favorites like D&T Drive Inn to the innovative 8 Row Flint in the Heights, its all about seeing Astros' stars deliver the best postseason moments in the right location and ambience. Venture off the beaten path, away from the traditional sports bars--and hit some of these unexpected hotspots in Houston. TEXAS SPORTS NATION: The only newsletter for the Houston sports superfan

It doesn't matter how poorly the numbers look if the hits come at the right time. When Astros fans remember this series, no one's going to complain about how Yuli Gurriel batted under .150 for the series. The Astros would ride that wave to the Bronx and take Game 3 behind Gerrit Cole's gritty pitching performance. Now, Altuve to this point had been the best Astros hitter in the series (batting over .300). Altuve became the only player besides Bill Mazeroski to hit a home run to end a Yankees postseason series with a loss.

That score was followed by a base hit by Aaron Judge. After a Michael Brantley strikeout, Bregman floated a line drive to center field for a base hit. Didi Gregorious was up next with a base hit off the end of his bat to shallow left, breaking up at that point Verlander's streak of retiring 10 straight batters. Bregman ended the inning with a grounder to shortstop for the force out at second.In the fifth, Verlander struck out Gardner swinging, followed by a LaMahieu flyout to right. Verlander struck out two more and brought his total up to nine.Brad Peacock entered for Verlander in the bottom of the eighth.

That score was followed by a base hit by Aaron Judge. After a Michael Brantley strikeout, Bregman floated a line drive to center field for a base hit. Didi Gregorious was up next with a base hit off the end of his bat to shallow left, breaking up at that point Verlander's streak of retiring 10 straight batters. Bregman ended the inning with a grounder to shortstop for the force out at second.In the fifth, Verlander struck out Gardner swinging, followed by a LaMahieu flyout to right. Verlander struck out two more and brought his total up to nine.Brad Peacock entered for Verlander in the bottom of the eighth.