What's Happening?
The Baltimore Orioles are set to host the Houston Astros in a four-game series, marking the home debuts of outfielder Dylan Beavers and catcher Samuel Basallo. Both players recently joined the major leagues during the Orioles' road trip. Basallo, 21, has made a strong impression with five RBIs and a .300 batting average over three games. Beavers has also performed well, batting .286 with one RBI across four games. The Orioles have been on a winning streak, securing victories in six of their last seven games, including a recent 4-3 win against Boston. Meanwhile, the Astros are facing challenges, having extended their losing streak to four games after a 7-2 defeat at Detroit. Concerns are also rising for Astros center fielder Taylor Trammell, who is being evaluated for a concussion following a collision with the wall.
Why It's Important?
The arrival of Beavers and Basallo adds excitement to the Orioles' lineup, potentially boosting their performance as they aim to maintain their winning momentum. The Orioles' recent success is crucial as they strive to improve their standing in the league. For the Astros, overcoming their losing streak is vital to maintaining their lead in the American League West, where they currently hold a narrow advantage over the Seattle Mariners. The health of key players like Trammell could significantly impact the Astros' ability to compete effectively in upcoming games. Both teams are dealing with injuries, which could influence their strategies and outcomes in the series.
What's Next?
The Orioles will assess the conditions of infielder Jordan Westburg and catcher Adley Rutschman, who are dealing with injuries, to determine their availability for the series. Rookie right-hander Brandon Young will start for the Orioles, seeking his second major league victory after a strong performance against the Astros last week. The Astros will counter with right-hander Jason Alexander, who has shown consistency in recent outings. The series will be pivotal for both teams as they navigate player injuries and aim to secure crucial wins.
