The Houston Astros may have found their remedy for the summertime slump, with Alex Bregman stepping up to lead the charge. Bregman, an LSU product, has been a standout performer in recent games, playing a crucial role in the Astros’ resurgence.
Under the guidance of Astros hitting coach Alex Cintron, Bregman has been working on refining his swing. Earlier in the season, Bregman struggled at the plate, often swinging too aggressively, leading to inconsistent results. However, those struggles now seem like a distant memory.
Bregman Ignites Houston’s Offense
Bregman has been on fire lately, earning the nickname “Big Shot Bregman” from Astros broadcaster Steve Sparks. On Tuesday night, he homered for the fourth consecutive game, helping the Astros secure a 3-2 victory over the Tampa Bay Rays. This performance extended his hitting streak to eight games, during which he has racked up 16 hits, including two three-hit games.
For the season, Bregman is now hitting .263 with 19 home runs and 59 RBIs, accumulating 122 hits in 463 at-bats. He’s also drawn 36 walks, playing a crucial role in setting up opportunities for Astros slugger Yordan Alvarez.
“I feel like I’m swinging it as good as I ever have in my career,” Bregman, 30, told Brian McTaggart of MLB.com on Tuesday night. “I feel like I’ve learned a lot over the last few years, and I’m trusting the work we’re putting in pregame. I feel really good.”
Astros fans are well aware that when Bregman gets hot, it often has a ripple effect throughout the lineup. Just like when Alvarez and Jose Altuve find their rhythm, the entire team benefits. Altuve has been among the American League’s leaders in batting average this season, while Alvarez continues to hit towering home runs, even smashing a scoreboard during batting practice at Tropicana Field on Tuesday.
Bregman’s Simple Approach Paying Off
While Alvarez continues to dominate with his power, Bregman has adopted a simpler approach at the plate.
“It’s been a hell of a last two months,” Bregman said. “We’re playing good. Obviously, I started kind of slow but learned a lot. I feel like I’m still young in my career and learning. I learned a lot about the swing, about what works for me and what doesn’t. I feel good.”
Astros manager Joe Espada is thrilled to see Bregman thriving. “He’s just found his groove,” Espada said. “His swing is right, and there’s a level of confidence, which he never lacks, but right now he’s putting [on] some good swings.”
Despite missing outfielder Kyle Tucker, the Astros’ offense has been firing on all cylinders. If Tucker returns this season, his presence in the lineup will be a significant boost. Bregman and Alvarez, who were named co-AL Players of the Week on Monday, are expected to continue leading the charge as the Astros push toward the postseason.
The Astros are set to wrap up their three-game series against the Rays on Wednesday afternoon, with Ronel Blanco taking the mound. The team is also eagerly anticipating the return of Cy Young Award winner Justin Verlander, who is scheduled to make another rehab start at Double-A Corpus Christi on Thursday, possibly his final outing before rejoining the big-league rotation.
