Astros: Five takeaways from ALDS Game Four loss

Five takeaways from the Astros 4-1 loss to the Rays in ALDS Game Four.

It was another frustrating night for the Astros under the Tropicana Field dome. Justin Verlander, starting on short rest, got knocked around early. The offense continued to struggle to score runs. Now there will be a do-or-die ALDS Game Five on Thursday in Houston.

With Gerrit Cole set to pitch on regular rest, the team has to feel confident. But that doesn’t mean a win is guaranteed. Here are five key takeaways from Game Four to ponder as we wait for the rubber match of the ALDS.

Verlander Not Invincible

As good as Verlander was in Game One, it was a shock to see him look so mortal in Game Four. There’s no way of knowing if…