The Astros homestand completed 6 games of a 20-game stretch w/o a day off.
The playoff feeling that comes with facing the > .500 teams helped the Astros to focus, w/ a 35-19 record. But they could not even breakeven w/ the < .500 teams (8-9).
The broadcasters were concerned about the remaining schedule:
There will be NO sleep walking through the remaining for the Astros this year! (something to the effect) I believe they will play their best baseball in the face of abuse…
The only 20-game stretch this season will be a strong temptation to let down.
(14-16 May) the Rangers swept the Astros @ their house, 4-10, 5-6, & 2-6!
I well remember the years when the closest Astros got to the playoffs was when they were able to make it hard - or even eliminate a contender’s chance - to make it to the playoffs.