The Astros lost at least 106 games every season from 2011-13 and 92 last season, and though the plan was to be improved in 2015, next year was really the target for contention.
But a combination of homegrown excellence (namely Dallas Keuchel, Jose Altuve, Carlos Correa and George Springer) blended with important outside additions has allowed Houston to reach the postseason for the first time since 2005.
How the Astros got here shares similarities with the Yankees’ path. Like the Yankees, they led their division for many more days than did the eventual champ. Like the Yankees, they had a sizable lead late into the season — Houston beat the Yankees on Aug.