Jose Altuve struggled to get going in Game 1 of the ALCS against the New York Yankees after failing to record a hit in the Houston Astros’ ALDS victory over the Seattle Mariners.
In three at-bats against the defending AL East champs, Altuve failed to record a single, but he did manage to get on base once thanks to a walk in the second inning. The All-Star second baseman has struck out seven times in his 19 postseason at-bats overall and has not recorded a single.
Alex Bregman, the third baseman for the Astros, is not overly concerned about Altuve’s slow postseason start. Bregman used the opportunity to praise his infield partner when asked about Altuve’s recent play during a press conference on Thursday before Game 2.
Bregman remarked, “I simply see the same guy every single day.” He is unconcerned about it. He’ll put forth a lot of effort. He’ll play vigorously. The only thing that counts to him in the end is succeeding. He is such a terrific teammate and leader because of this.
“His energy is constant. He’s constantly on task. Even though he is out, the ball was smacked off the bag last night, but he still made a fantastic play. Although it didn’t appear like much, a ball bouncing off the bag in that manner is an extremely difficult play. And just like Jeremy, never bring your glove to the plate or your bat to the field. You must compartmentalise while continuing to play baseball.
In Game 2 of the ALCS on Thursday, Altuve will undoubtedly try to get things back on track.
The article “Astros’ Alex Bregman gives an honest assessment of Jose Altuve’s sluggish start to the 2022 MLB postseason” originally published on ClutchPoints.
