Image 1: Thomas Shea-Imagn Images, Image 2-3: Troy Taormina-Imagn Images, Image 4: Thomas Shea-Imagn Images
Despite a rough season, the Houston Astros somehow still managed to become finalists for the American League Silver Slugger Offensive Team of the Year award. They finished 81–81, the worst record ever for a division winner, and were swept out of the postseason by the Chicago White Sox, who are also nominated. It was an ugly way to end an ugly season, but that didn't stop them from being recognized for their offensive accomplishments.
The Astros led MLB with 226 home runs in 2026. They had the power and then some, but it didn't get them where they wanted to go. Here's a closer look at why that wasn't enough.
They struggled to turn those home runs into wins and could never really build the momentum they needed. That said, leading all of MLB with 226 home runs is not nothing.
The Astros have plenty of power, particularly with Yordan Alvarez. But when their sluggers went through cold streaks, the offense needed other ways to produce runs, and they didn't have many alternatives. Alvarez is also nominated for the American League Silver Slugger Award, which could be the second of hi...