--- title: "Astros Climb Back to Contention in AL West" description: "The Houston Astros have won three straight series and sit three games back in the AL West after beating the Guardians, overcoming a brutal start to the season." url: https://sportopod.com/en-US/cluster/houston-astros-pitcher-josh-hader-9d89b16e published: 2026-06-22T13:29:44.124+00:00 updated: 2026-06-22T13:29:44.124+00:00 author: "Kostadin Stamboliev" publisher: "Pineido" site: "Sportopod" language: en topics: ["baseball"] --- # Astros Climb Back to Contention in AL West > The Houston Astros have won three straight series and sit three games back in the AL West after beating the Guardians, overcoming a brutal start to the season. The Houston Astros are making a quiet resurgence in the American League West, boosted by a 2-1 victory over the Cleveland Guardians. After a dismal start that saw them plummet to 20-31, the Astros have turned things around with a 17-11 record over their last 28 games. This latest win marks their third consecutive series victory, placing them just three games behind the division leaders. In a division characterized by mediocrity, Houston's steady climb illustrates that consistency can yield results. In their recent matchup against the Guardians, the Astros showcased their resilience, overcoming a series of injuries that had previously crippled their rotation. Key players like Hunter Brown and Cristian Javier have stepped up, and Yordan Alvarez continues to be a driving force in the lineup. The Astros’ ability to maintain composure amid adversity has been a significant factor in their recent success, allowing them to capitalize on the struggles of their competitors in the AL West. The Astros' recent performance is not just about wins; it’s a testament to their depth and adaptability. With several key players sidelined, the team has relied on younger talent and role players who have risen to the occasion. This ability to develop and integrate new talent into the lineup is a hallmark of successful franchises. It’s a reminder that the Astros are not merely a one-season wonder but a franchise capable of evolving and competing at a high level, even when faced with setbacks. Furthermore, the current landscape of the AL West presents a unique opportunity for the Astros. With the division leaders struggling to maintain consistency, Houston's resurgence could shift the balance of power. As they continue to gain momentum, the Astros are not just aiming for a playoff spot; they are positioning themselves as serious contenders for the division title. Their recent success could serve as a catalyst for a late-season surge that might catch their rivals off guard. The Astros’ turnaround is also reflective of their strong organizational culture, which emphasizes resilience and a winning mentality. This culture has been crucial in helping the team navigate through tough stretches. Players have repeatedly mentioned the importance of maintaining focus and sticking to their game plan, which has resulted in a collective effort to turn the season around. Their ability to stay united and motivated, even during challenging times, speaks volumes about the team's character. As the season progresses, the Astros' strategic approach will be vital. They have shown they can adapt to various game situations, but maintaining this level of performance is crucial. The upcoming series will test their resolve and ability to keep pace with the division leaders. If they can continue to perform at this level, they could not only secure a playoff spot but also establish themselves as a dominant force in the AL West. "We just kept grinding, and now it’s paying off," said manager Dusty Baker after the game. The Astros’ determination has transformed their season from a potential disaster into a legitimate playoff pursuit. With their recent performance, the team is proving that they are far from done, and they are ready to challenge for a postseason spot. What's next: The Astros will look to continue their momentum as they head into the next series, aiming to close the gap on the division leaders. With the AL West still wide open, every game counts, and Houston is poised to capitalize on any slip-ups from their rivals. ## Why this matters The Astros' resurgence is significant as it highlights their resilience in the face of adversity. After a rough start, they have managed to claw their way back into contention, demonstrating that even in a weak division, a team can find its footing and make a playoff push. This turnaround not only revitalizes their season but also challenges the notion of their dynasty being over. ## Frequently asked ### What is the Astros' current standing in the AL West? The Houston Astros are currently three games behind the division leaders in the American League West, following a successful stretch of play. ### How have injuries affected the Astros this season? The Astros faced a brutal early-season injury crisis, which contributed to their poor start at 20-31. However, they have since rebounded with key players stepping up. ### Who are some standout players for the Astros recently? Key players such as Hunter Brown, Cristian Javier, and Yordan Alvarez have played crucial roles in the Astros' recent success, helping the team secure three straight series wins. ## Sources & Citations - [Houston Astros pitcher Josh Hader.](https://www.si.com/mlb/astros/onsi/astros-steadily-returning-relevancy-american-league-west-race) — NewsData.io (2026-06-22) --- Cite: Astros Climb Back to Contention in AL West. Sportopod, 2026-06-22. https://sportopod.com/en-US/cluster/houston-astros-pitcher-josh-hader-9d89b16e