What would a dream Astros starting lineup look like next year?
By Tim Boyle
2. Dream Astros starting lineup: Jeremy Pena bats second, SS
The ALCS and World Series MVP gets to hit second in the dream Astros lineup. Jeremy Pena helped fans forget all about Carlos Correa. His impressive playoff run has earned him a top place in the lineup for next year.
Pena had a good yet not spectacular regular season featuring a .253/.289/.426 slash line. He did add 22 home runs and steal 11 bases along the way. He even won a Gold Glove.
Pena does have some areas to improve upon. As a rookie last year, some growing pains were to be expected. He already climbed the tallest mountain possible. We should expect big things from him in 2023, dream or otherwise.
3. Dream Astros starting lineup: Yordan Alvarez bats third, DH
It’s pretty easy to come up with the dream Astros starting lineup when so many of the players are already there. Batting third, we have Yordan Alvarez. His rise to becoming one of the best sluggers in baseball was quick. He’s already averaging 43 bombs per 162 games.
Alvarez finished third in the American League MVP race last year. A boost in several areas to his offensive output was a big reason why. What’s so unbelievable is that he won’t turn 26 until next June.
The stars are aligned for Alvarez to do some major damage yet again in 2023. The Astros should feel great about having him batting third. They can sleep well with him protecting the middle of the lineup.