Next Man Up: How the Astros Keep Winning Without Their Superstar

• The Houston Astros are 36-29 and first in the AL West despite the absence of superstar Yordan Alvarez.
• A 'next man up' mentality has fueled a hot streak, with the team winning 10 of its last 13 games.
• Outfielder Jake Meyers has been a key contributor, highlighted by a recent 4-for-4 game with two stolen bases.
• Catcher Yainer Diaz is showing signs of his 2024 form, with four two-hit games in his last eight contests.
• Rookie Jacob Melton is making an impact since his call-up, contributing in clutch situations.

For over a month, the Houston Astros have been playing without their superstar slugger, Yordan Alvarez. And for over a month, they've done more than just tread water—they've thrived. Riding a hot streak that saw them win 10 of their last 13 games, the Astros sit comfortably atop the AL West at 36-29, proving that the 'next man up' mentality is alive and well in Houston as they prepare to host the struggling Chicago White Sox.

Jake Meyers enters tonight's game riding the momentum from a stunning 4-for-4 performance, complete with two stolen bases.

The Unlikely Offensive Heroes

The biggest story for the Astros has been the performance of the supporting cast in Alvarez's absence. Outfielder Jake Meyers has been a revelation, providing a massive boost from the bottom of the order and coming off an incredible 4-for-4 game with two steals. He's not alone. Catcher Yainer Diaz is shaking off a slow start, showing signs of his 2024 form with four two-hit games in his last eight contests, including a clutch two-run homer in Saturday's extra-inning win. Even rookie Jacob Melton, called up on June 1st, is contributing in key moments, drawing a crucial walk and scoring an insurance run in that same victory. It's this collective effort that has kept the offense potent.

A Tale of Two Arms

While the bats have found a way, the pitching staff continues to be anchored by an emerging ace. Though not pitching tonight, Hunter Brown has been nothing short of dominant, posting a stellar 1.82 ERA through 79 innings. He's allowed one or fewer runs in nine of his last eleven starts, though his control has wavered recently with nine walks in his last 11.1 innings. Tonight, the ball goes to Lance McCullers Jr., who is still working to find his form. Making just his fourth start of 2025, the veteran righty (1-1, 4.44 ERA) will be looking to build stamina and consistency against a beatable White Sox lineup.

Preview: Astros vs. White Sox

The Astros (36-29) enter tonight's matchup at Daikin Park as clear favorites against the Chicago White Sox (22-44). The pitching duel features Houston's Lance McCullers Jr. against Chicago's Shane Smith (2-3, 2.45 ERA). After a successful road trip, the Astros are looking to capitalize on their momentum and extend their lead in the AL West. With players like Meyers providing a spark, the team is in a prime position to handle business against a last-place opponent.

Tonight's game against the White Sox is more than just another notch in the schedule; it's another test of this team's depth and resilience. With McCullers Jr. aiming to find his groove and the offense firing on unexpected cylinders, the Astros are proving they have the grit to chase another title, with or without all their stars. A win tonight would continue to solidify their hold on the AL West and send a clear message: Houston's championship window remains wide open.