Who will save the day for each MLB team?

Houston Astros: Carlos Correa

The Houston Astros are the reigning World Series champions, and heavy favorites to repeat in 2018. They followed a path similar to the Chicago Cubs with their rebuild, stocking up on prospects, particularly position players. Needless to say, it worked out.

One of those young prospects was Carlos Correa. Just three years into his major league career, he’s starting to look like one of the best players in the game. There’s a case to be made that he’s the best shortstop in the league. To this point, he’s slashed .288/.366/.498 with 66 home runs and 248 RBI.

After getting off to a fast start, 2017 was the best year of Correa’s career. He posted a career-high .941 while hitting 24 home runs. He tore a ligament in his left thumb in July, which forced him to miss some time, limiting him to 109 regular season games.

At just 23 years old, Correa could get even better, which is a scary thing for opposing pitchers. He played a major part in October, hitting seven postseason home runs for the Astros, including two in the World Series. If there really is such a thing as the “clutch factor,” Correa’s got it.

This Astros team is as well-balanced as any in the league. They’ve got a great mix of young talent and veteran leadership. It’s a big reason why so many expect them to end up in the World Series again. Carlos Correa is going to be an all-star and perennial MVP candidate for years to come.