Of course, it’s just one game out of 162. But this one confirmed our worst fears and, in some ways, our highest hopes. First, the fears.
- The “ace,” Framber Valdez, looks like the worst version of himself, as he did in Spring Training. The Astros’ chances of making the playoffs diminish considerably if this pre-2020 or second-half 2023 version is the Framber we get going forward. Six hits and five walks in less than five innings won’t cut it. Yes, he was the victim of poor umpire calls. Please. Roboumps.
- Middle relief couldn’t hold a lead.