MLB: 5 teams that will be in the 2015 postseason mix

Jun 6, 2014; Chicago, IL, USA; The Chicago Cubs celebrate first baseman Anthony Rizzo (not pictured) walk-off two run homer against the Miami Marlins at Wrigley Field. The Chicago Cubs defeated the Miami Marlins 5-3 in 13 innings .Mandatory Credit: David Banks-USA TODAY Sports /

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Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports /

Houston Astros

Why the Houston Astros are fourth place in the A.L. West is really just a testament to how good their divisional opponents are. The Los Angeles Angels, Oakland Athletics and Seattle Mariners are all likely to make the playoffs, with the Mariners and A’s taking both American League Wild Card spots in the postseason this year.

While those three teams are unlikely to drop completely out of contention next season, the Astros do have the talent to get into the postseason mix in 2015.

First off, they have two guys whose presence on their team makes it shocking that the Astros haven’t accomplished more this season and those guys are Chris Carter and Jose Altuve. Altuve is currently in line to be the American League batting champion and Chris Carter is close to catching the Orioles’ Nelson Cruz for the title of A.L. home run king for 2014. The incredibly tall Carter and five-foot-five Altuve make an odd pair but one I would want on my team.

Astros’ pitchers Scott Feldman (3.99 ERA), Dallas Keuchel (3.06 ERA) and Collin McHugh (2.79 ERA) have been stellar this season. Closer Chad Qualls has struggled with injuries a bit but still has 17 saves.

Houston has rookies like Jon Singleton and George Springer who have power in their bats and will be better next season after gaining experience since being called up earlier in 2014. There’s talent in their farm system as well. Look for the Astros to be competitive next season.

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