Crush City Territory: A Houston Astros Podcast

The Astros dropped two of three against the Arizona Diamondbacks in a series that saw Houston's bullpen take a substantial hit while Yordan Alvarez broke out of his home run drought. Tyler Stafford and The Athletic's Chandler Rome discuss Steven Okert's injury and how the Astros' bullpen may respond, Alvarez's career-high 38 home runs and how the team's top-heavy lineup can create any length.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Astros took three out of four from the American League Central-leading Chicago White Sox and crept closer to a first-round bye in the AL playoff picture. Former Astros outfielder Josh Reddick joins Tyler Stafford and The Athletic's Chandler Rome to discuss the series win, Hayden Wesneski's impressive return from Tommy John surgery, Jose Altuve's ability to hit high balls for home runs and how the Astros' offense can improve across the season's final month.Start your FOX One 3-day Free trial today at FOXOne.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Former Astros general manager Dana Brown joined Foul Territory on Tuesday and made his first extensive comments since being dismissed. Tyler Stafford and The Athletic's Chandler Rome analyzed some of Brown's most revealing comments before discussing the latest in Carlos Correa's recovery from ankle surgery, Tatsuya Imai's continued absence in the bullpen and Mike Burrows' shoulder injury. To watch Dana Brown's full interview on Foul Territory, click here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wAk8X1YkzP8 Shop now at Fabletics.com/Foul and get 70 to 80% off everything when you sign up as a new VIP Use our code for 10% off your next order of MLB tickets on SeatGeek*: seatgeek.onelink.me/RrnK/TERRITORY10 Sponsored by SeatGeek. *Restrictions apply. Max $20 discountSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

At the behest of Jeff Bagwell, the Astros brought back venerated pitching coach Brent Strom as a pitching consultant in hopes of catalyzing a late-season turnaround. Tyler Stafford and The Athletic's Chandler Rome discuss how Strom got back to the ballclub, the areas he can improve and what his presence means for the future of the organization. The duo then breaks down Hunter Brown's dominant start against the New York Mets and the Astros' continued search for outfield continuity. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Astros owner Jim Crane spoke for the first time on Tuesday since parting ways with general manager Dana Brown. Tyler Stafford and The Athletic's Chandler Rome discuss Crane's comments, the future of manager Joe Espada, what doomed Brown and where Crane may look next for his new head of baseball operations. To read Jim Crane's full Q&A with reporters on Tuesday at Yankee Stadium, click here: https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/7538910/2026/08/25/qa-astros-jim-crane-joe-espada-decisions/?unlocked_article_code=1.8VA.GMMz.-eY10Cfv3P_k&source=emp_shared_article&smid=url-share-ta To explore coverage, visit aspcapetinsurance.com/FOUL. The ASPCA® is not an insurer and is not engaged in the business of insurance. Go to Quince.com/foul for free shipping on your order and 365-day returnsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Astros and Dana Brown parted ways on Monday, ending a three-and-a-half year tenure for Houston's general manager. Tyler Stafford and The Athletic's Chandler Rome discuss why Brown was dismissed now, what led to his downfall, what this means for manager Joe Espada and where the Astros go from here. Use our code for 10% off your next order of MLB tickets on SeatGeek*: seatgeek.onelink.me/RrnK/TERRITORY10 Sponsored by SeatGeek. *Restrictions apply. Max $20 discount Go to Quince.com/foul for free shipping on your order and 365-day returnsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Astros ended an embarrassing homestand with their worst loss of the season — blowing a six-run lead against the lowly A's, who entered play with the worst record in baseball. Tyler Stafford and The Athletic's Chandler Rome discuss Houston's horrific 3-6 homestand, the ramifications on its playoff pursuit, what can be fixed to get things on the right track and how Joe Espada's absence accentuated that this isn't a managerial issue. See how K12 Powered Schools can help unlock your child’s full potential.  Enroll online today at K12.com/foul Use our code for 10% off your next order of MLB tickets on SeatGeek*: seatgeek.onelink.me/RrnK/TERRITORY10 Sponsored by SeatGeek. *Restrictions apply. Max $20 discountSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After a humiliating 18-3 defeat to the Los Angeles Angels on Thursday — and a series loss against the second-worst team in the American League — is the Houston Astros place atop the AL West in peril? Tyler Stafford and The Athletic's Chandler Rome discuss the Astros' dispiriting series loss to the Angels, the unbalanced nature of their top-heavy roster, the rotation's continued struggles and what they made of rookie Ethan Pecko's major-league debut.  See how K12 Powered Schools can help unlock your child’s full potential.  Enroll online today at K12.com/foul Use our code for 10% off your next order of MLB tickets on SeatGeek*: seatgeek.onelink.me/RrnK/TERRITORY10 Sponsored by SeatGeek. *Restrictions apply. Max $20 discountSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After a thrilling comeback on Friday night, the Astros squandered a chance to bury the Seattle Marines in the AL West race, dropping the final two games of their series. A better opportunity lies ahead, though, against two of the worst teams in the American League. Former Astros outfielder Josh Reddick joins Tyler Stafford and The Athletic's Chandler Rome to discuss the series loss, Hunter Brown's continued struggles, the state of Houston's starting rotation and how to approach playing two terrible teams during a must-win stretch.  To get your new wireless plan for just 15 bucks a month, go to MintMobile.com/Territory. That’s it there’s no catch. See how K12 Powered Schools can help unlock your child’s full potential.  Enroll online today at K12.com/foulSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ethan Pecko did not make his scheduled start for Triple-A Sugar Land on Sunday — perhaps in preparation to make his major-league debut next week against the Angels. Tyler Stafford and The Athletic’s Chandler Rome discuss Pecko’s potential call-up before previewing the finale of an already wild Astros-Mariners series. Shop now at Fabletics.com/Foul and get 70 to 80% off everything when you sign up as a new VIP Use our code for 10% off your next order of MLB tickets on SeatGeek*: seatgeek.onelink.me/RrnK/TERRITORY10 Sponsored by SeatGeek. *Restrictions apply. Max $20 discountSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Astros are in playoff position despite uncertainty in both their front office and pitching staff. Tyler Stafford and The Athletic's Chandler Rome field listener questions about both problems and address the status of general manager Dana Brown, Tatsuya Imai's viability as a playoff pitcher, where AJ Blubaugh fits best and some prospects that could help bolster this staff.  Go to Quince.com/foul for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns Use our code for 10% off your next order of MLB tickets on SeatGeek*: seatgeek.onelink.me/RrnK/TERRITORY10 Sponsored by SeatGeek. *Restrictions apply. Max $20 discountSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Despite deep funks from Jeremy Peña, Yordan Alvarez and Isaac Paredes, the Astros managed a 3-3 West Coast road trip buoyed by their bullpen. Tyler Stafford and The Athletic's Chandler Rome discuss Houston's six-game swing, how superb the bullpen has been, how top-heavy the Astros' offense has become and what lies ahead during a pivotal, nine-game AL West homestand. Head to Factormeals.com/foul50off and use code foul50off to get 50% off and 1 free breakfast item per box for 1 year, while supplies last until 10/31/2026 Go to Quince.com/foul for free shipping on your order and 365-day returnsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After an underwhelming trade deadline netted them only Daulton Varsho, the Astros are still searching for upgrades to their roster — specifically a right-handed hitting bench bat to give manager Joe Espada more flexibility late in games. Tyler Stafford and The Athletic's Chandler Rome discuss some potential candidates and why the Astros need them in the first place before analyzing the first two games of Houston's series against the San Diego Padres and the viability of Peter Lambert's success in the rotationSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the aftermath of an underwhelming trade deadline, the Astros dropped two of three against the Toronto Blue Jays while questions about the sustainability of their starting rotation lingered. Tyler Stafford and The Athletic's Chandler Rome discuss the deadline fallout, the state of Houston's starting rotation, Cristian Javier's importance to the rest of the season, Carlos Correa's possible return and whether Josh Hader will throw multiple innings again this season. Use our code for 10% off your next order of MLB tickets on SeatGeek*: seatgeek.onelink.me/RrnK/TERRITORY10 Sponsored by SeatGeek. *Restrictions apply. Max $20 discount See how K12 Powered Schools can help unlock your child’s full potential.  Enroll online today at K12.com/foulSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

At Monday's trade deadline, the Astros improved their outfield by acquiring center fielder Daulton Varsho, but failed to fortify a struggling starting rotation. The Athletic's Chandler Rome discusses Varsho's addition, why the Astros couldn't add to their starting rotation, Dana Brown's awkward balance between the present and future and why Houston parted with Spencer Arrighetti to get Varsho to Houston. To explore coverage, visit aspcapetinsurance.com/FOUL. The ASPCA® is not an insurer and is not engaged in the business of insurance. To get your new wireless plan for just 15 bucks a month, go to MintMobile.com/Territory. That’s it there’s no catch.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Astros never trailed in a statement sweep of the Texas Rangers, which vaulted Houston into first place in the American League West while intensifying attention around their actions at Monday's trade deadline. Tyler Stafford and The Athletic's Chandler Rome discuss the sweep, Yordan Alvarez's continued absurdity and the anemic state of the American League West before analyzing the Astros' position at the trade deadline and the possibility of Carlos Correa returning at some point this season.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The trade deadline is four days away and the Astros remain in search of outfield upgrades and, perhaps, right-handed pitching. Tyler Stafford and The Athletic's Chandler Rome spend this episode answering listener questions about the deadline, Jeremy Peña's future in Houston, the potential of a reunion with George Springer and what other targets may present themselves across the next four days.  Use our code for 10% off your next order of MLB tickets on SeatGeek*: seatgeek.onelink.me/RrnK/TERRITORY10 Sponsored by SeatGeek. *Restrictions apply. Max $20 discount Baseball America is the best place to learn about all the prospects on the move this Trade Deadline season. Now through Monday, our viewers get 30% off the first year of any digital, annual subscription with promo code CrushCity30. That's code CrushCity30 at BaseballAmerica.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Astros have won seven of their past eight games and remain in ideal position for an American League playoff spot as the trade deadline approaches. Tyler Stafford and The Athletic's Chandler Rome discuss the team's series win in Anaheim, the continued struggles of embattled starter Tatsuya Imai, the resurgence of Peter Lambert and why it's endearing to be called a cockroach. Use our code for 10% off your next order of MLB tickets on SeatGeek*: seatgeek.onelink.me/RrnK/TERRITORY10 Sponsored by SeatGeek. *Restrictions apply. Max $20 discountSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hunter Brown reprised his role as the Astros' ace and pitched Houston to a series win it desperately needed. Because of it, general manager Dana Brown reaffirmed the Astros' status as trade deadline buyers. Tyler Stafford and The Athletic's Chandler Rome discuss Brown's dominance, Houston's biggest trade deadline needs, Spencer Arrighetti's foot injury and what comes next for the Astros' rotation in his absence. 🌶️ Use our code for 10% off your next order of MLB tickets on SeatGeek*: seatgeek.onelink.me/RrnK/TERRITORY10 Sponsored by SeatGeek. *Restrictions apply. Max $20 discountSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As Yordan Alvarez continues his MVP season, it's worth noting the production of the two men who sandwich him in Houston's batting order: shortstop Jeremy Peña and third baseman Isaac Paredes. Former Astros outfielder Josh Reddick joins Tyler Stafford and The Athletic's Chandler Rome to discuss that big three, Cam Smith's inactive weekend and whether Bryan Abreu is entering the team's circle of bullpen trust. Get 20% off your first order of $125 or more at MackWeldon.com with promo code FOUL See how K12 Powered Schools can help unlock your child’s full potential.  Enroll online today at K12.com/foulSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Yordan Alvarez has a comfortable lead atop all three American League Triple Crown leaderboards and is cruising toward an AL MVP. Shouldn't that almost mandate the Astros to add talent around him at the Aug. 3 trade deadline? Tyler Stafford and The Athletic's Chandler Rome discuss Alvarez's season and how influential his dominance may be as the deadline approaches before analyzing Ronel Blanco's return to the starting rotation and another potential corner turned from Tatsuya Imai. 🌶️ To get your new wireless plan for just 15 bucks a month, go to MintMobile.com/Territory. That’s it there’s no catch.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Astros came back from the All Star break with a whimper, scoring six runs in 29 innings during a three-game sweep at the hands of the Baltimore Orioles. How much, if at all, does this change Houston's trade deadline calculus? Tyler Stafford and The Athletic's Chandler Rome discuss whether the Astros would ever engaged in a full-scale selloff, the most realistic scenario for the deadline and what players could move.  🌶️See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After they tried to trade him for months, the Houston Astros finally found a taker for Lance McCullers Jr. on Wednesday, trading him to the Milwaukee Brewers alongside pitcher Colton Gordon in exchange for Jadyn Fielder — the son of six-time All-Star Prince Fielder. The Athletic's Chandler Rome discusses why the Astros traded McCullers and what they'll do in his absence before analyzing McCullers' legacy to Houston's golden era. 🌶️ Use our code for 10% off your next order of MLB tickets on SeatGeek*: seatgeek.onelink.me/RrnK/TERRITORY10 Sponsored by SeatGeek. *Restrictions apply. Max $20 discountSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Astros finished an underwhelming first-half 47-51, but still with a real chance to make the postseason within a weak American League. Former Astros outfielder Josh Reddick joins The Athletic's Chandler Rome to grade the team's offense, pitching staff and management on their first-half performance. Reddick then remembers his many battles with retiring Astros legend Justin Verlander before calling into question one of MLB's decisions during the Home Run Derby.  🌶️ Use code foul50off to get 50% off and free daily greens per box, with new subscription only, while supplies last at Factormeals.com/foul50offSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Astros finished an underwhelming first half with an underwhelming 2-4 road trip through Washington and Arlington, leaving the club four games under .500, but somehow still within legitimate striking distance of a playoff spot. The Crawfish Boxes' Adam Spolane joins The Athletic's Chandler Rome to discuss the first half as a whole, best and worst moments and the difficult decisions forthcoming for general manager Dana Brown.  Use our code for 10% off your next order of MLB tickets on SeatGeek*: seatgeek.onelink.me/RrnK/TERRITORY10 Sponsored by SeatGeek. *Restrictions apply. Max $20 discount See how K12 Powered Schools can help unlock your child’s full potential.  Enroll online today at K12.com/foulSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Astros have the American League's worst rotation — and now must confront some difficult questions at the All-Star break. Tyler Stafford and The Athletic's Chandler Rome discuss the continued struggles of Spencer Arrighetti and Tatsuya Imai and what the team could do to reinvigorate its rotation before analyzing the end of Justin Verlander's Hall of Fame career and Yordan Alvarez's desire to never play for another team.  🌶️ Shop now at Fabletics.com/Foul and get 70 to 80% off everything when you sign up as a new VIP.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mike Burrows had his worst start of a brutal first half, prompting serious questions about where the Astros go from here in their rotation. Tyler Stafford and The Athletic's Chandler Rome try to answer some of them, including whether Burrows would be better served in the minor leagues, how Cristian Javier fits in all of this and the dilemma Joe Espada faces each night. Stafford and Rome also discuss Yordan Alvarez's continued pursuit of the Triple Crown and the decision to option Jake Meyers. 🌶️ See how K12 Powered Schools can help unlock your child’s full potential.  Enroll online today at K12.com/foul  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Astros have one of baseball's least-productive outfields and a pitching staff without much stability behind reigning Cy Young finalist Hunter Brown. Which area deserves the most attention at the trade deadline? Tyler Stafford and The Athletic's Chandler Rome debate that topic, the true value of popular trade target AJ Blubaugh, the role that returning pitchers will play and how much Dana Brown's job status factors into all of this.  🌶️ Use our code for 10% off your next order of MLB tickets on SeatGeek*: https://seatgeek.onelink.me/RrnK/TERRITORY10 Sponsored by SeatGeek. *Restrictions apply. Max $20 discountSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tatsuya Imai's enigmatic season continued with another clunker against the Minnesota Twins. Cristian Javier is making his long-awaited return — but as a reliever. And the Astros are fielding trade calls on several members of their bullpen, including AJ Blubaugh. Former Astros outfielder Josh Reddick joins Tyler Stafford and The Athletic's Chandler Rome to discuss the predicament, why Javier is becoming a reliever and what the best path forward may be in trades. 🌶️ Use our code for 10% off your next order of MLB tickets on SeatGeek*: seatgeek.onelink.me/RrnK/TERRITORY10 Sponsored by SeatGeek. *Restrictions apply. Max $20 discountSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Yordan Alvarez had an MVP moment on Tuesday night, whacking a go-ahead grand slam off Twins ace Joe Ryan during the Astros' 6-4 win. How many more moments like this will Alvarez need to lock up the honor? Tyler Stafford and The Athletic's Chandler Rome discuss that, Jeremy Peña's trip to the injured list with a strained left calf and Tatsuya Imai's increased comfort in Houston's clubhouse. To read Chandler's story about Imai, click here. 🌶️ Go to Quince.com/foul for free shipping on your order and 365-day returnsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Astros won their fifth consecutive series, crept to two games below .500 and sit just a half-game back of a playoff spot in the American League. Tyler Stafford and The Athletic's Chandler Rome discuss the Astros' successful weekend in Detroit, the contributions from their entire roster and Tatsuya Imai's second straight strong start before analyzing a pretty compelling roster crunch looming on the pitching staff. 🌶️ Use our code for 10% off your next order of MLB tickets on SeatGeek*: seatgeek.onelink.me/RrnK/TERRITORY10 Sponsored by SeatGeek. *Restrictions apply. Max $20 discountSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Astros are 19-12 in their last 31 games and, after winning two of three against the Blue Jays, have won four series in a row. Tyler Stafford and The Athletic's Chandler Rome discuss the growing momentum, Mike Burrows' return to the starting rotation and Yordan Alvarez's continued awesomeness before discussing the dearth of outfield options on the roster and one internal candidate who could be up sooner rather than later. 🌶️ To explore coverage, visit aspcapetinsurance.com/FOUL. The ASPCA® is not an insurer and is not engaged in the business of insurance. To get your new wireless plan for just 15 bucks a month, go to MintMobile.com/Territory. That’s it there’s no catch.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As the minor-league season reaches its halfway point, Astros farm director Sam Niedorf joins The Athletic's Chandler Rome to discuss the best performances of the first half, the breakout of catching prospect Jason Schiavone, the progress of teenaged prospects Xavier Neyens and Kevin Alvarez along with the continued development of Miguel Ullola, Ethan Pecko and Bryce Mayer. Rome then discusses the Astros' series win against the Guardians, Jose Altuve's rare display of frustration and Yordan Alvarez's decision to bypass the Home Run Derby. 🌶️ To explore coverage, visit aspcapetinsurance.com/FOUL. The ASPCA® is not an insurer and is not engaged in the business of insurance. Get 20% off your first order of $125 or more at MackWeldon.com with promo code FOULSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Crush City Territory, Mitch Bannon and Chandler Rome of The Athletic break down many connections between the Jays and Astros franchises, the parallels between their 2026 seasons and preview Houston’s upcoming series in Toronto. To explore coverage, visit aspcapetinsurance.com/FOUL. The ASPCA® is not an insurer and is not engaged in the business of insurance. 🌶️See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Astros are 15-10 since May 22, but need to start stacking more wins if they want to be a legitimate playoff threat. Todd Kalas, the team's television voice on Space City Home Network, joins The Athletic's Chandler Rome to discuss whether the team is turning a corner, the two offensive players Houston must receive more from to become more dynamic and whether Tatsuya Imai could be on borrowed time in the Astros' rotation.  🌶️ Use our code for 10% off your next order of MLB tickets on SeatGeek*: seatgeek.onelink.me/RrnK/TERRITORY10 Sponsored by SeatGeek. *Restrictions apply. Max $20 discountSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Astros ace Hunter Brown made his long-awaited return in a series win that featured two saves from Josh Hader. Having both pitchers back provides a boost to a team in desperate need of one. Former Astros outfielder Josh Reddick joins Tyler Stafford and The Athletic's Chandler Rome to discuss the impact both arms will provide, how Brown looked in his first start since March 31 and a temporary move to the bullpen for embattled starter Mike Burrows. 🌶️ Use our code for 10% off your next order of MLB tickets on SeatGeek*: seatgeek.onelink.me/RrnK/TERRITORY10 Sponsored by SeatGeek. *Restrictions apply. Max $20 discountSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

At a time when they need to start stacking wins, the Astros mustered just a 3-3 road trip against two of the American League's worst teams. Might Hunter Brown's return from the injured list be the boost they need? Tyler Stafford and The Athletic's Chandler Rome discuss the disappointing results from the road and Tatsuya Imai's unacceptable start on Friday before previewing Brown's return to a big league mound. 🌶️ Use our code for 10% off your next order of MLB tickets on SeatGeek*: seatgeek.onelink.me/RrnK/TERRITORY10 Sponsored by SeatGeek. *Restrictions apply. Max $20 discountSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Cristian Javier looked great in his second minor-league rehab start. Hunter Brown made his final one on Wednesday. What will the Astros do when both are back? Tyler Stafford and The Athletic’s Chandler Rome discuss the dilemma during the first ever live edition of Crush City Territory. The duo answers listener questions about Lance McCullers Jr, the trade deadline and Jeremy Peña's future. 🌶️ To explore coverage, visit aspcapetinsurance.com/FOUL. The ASPCA® is not an insurer and is not engaged in the business of insurance.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Astros general manager Dana Brown said the team has had "zero conversations" about trading AL MVP favorite Yordan Alvarez — and he doesn't believe the Astros will be selling at all by Aug. 3. Former Astros outfielder Josh Reddick joins Tyler Stafford and The Athletic's Chandler Rome to discuss Brown's comments, the trade speculation surrounding Alvarez and Jeremy Peña and how Houston may handle their catching position upon Yainer Diaz's return. 🌶️ Use our code for 10% off your next order of MLB tickets on SeatGeek*: seatgeek.onelink.me/RrnK/TERRITORY10 Sponsored by SeatGeek. *Restrictions apply. Max $20 discountSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jose Altuve's return from the injured list made the Astros' lineup whole again — and helped to kickstart a series win against the division rival A's. Tyler Stafford and The Athletic's Chandler Rome break down the series win, what Altuve's return means for a run of soft spot of their schedule and how they might address Mike Burrows' continued problems in the starting rotation.  🌶️See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Eight games under .500 and seeking a spark, the Astros shook up their struggling outfield by signing LaMonte Wade Jr. and sending Joey Loperfido to Triple-A Sugar Land. Tyler Stafford and The Athletic's Chandler Rome discuss Wade's arrival and the decision to demote Loperfido before revisiting some missed opportunities this winter to solidify the outfield. The two then discuss whether slugger Yordan Alvarez is the new MVP favorite in the wake of Aaron Judge's rib fracture. 🌶️See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Down to their final four outs — and staring at 98 percent odds to lose — the Houston Astros authored the most improbable comeback of their imperfect season, scoring six two-out runs in the eighth inning to stun the Pittsburgh Pirates at Daikin Park. Tyler Stafford and The Athletic's Chandler Rome discuss the wild comeback, Cam Smith's heroics, Josh Hader's much-anticipated return and whether a win like this can springboard a team that's been teetering all season. 🌶️See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tatsuya Imai went toe-to-toe with Milwaukee Brewers phenom Jacob Misiorowski and delivered the most encouraging start of his major-league career. Tyler Stafford and The Athletic's Chandler Rome discuss Imai's progression and debate whether he's turned the corner before analyzing the rest of an encouraging series against the Brewers, including Joe Espada's management of game one and how to handle Bryan Abreu.  Get 20% off your first order of $125 or more at MackWeldon.com with promo code FOUL  Use our code for 10% off your next order of MLB tickets on SeatGeek*: seatgeek.onelink.me/RrnK/TERRITORY10 Sponsored by SeatGeek. *Restrictions apply. Max $20 discountSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Yordan Alvarez became the fastest player in Astros history to reach 20 home runs in a season. His power is propelling the Astros back to relevance and has his teammates in awe. Former Astros outfielder Josh Reddick — Alvarez's former teammate — joins Tyler Stafford and The Athletic's Chandler Rome to discuss Alvarez's dominance, his candidacy for AL MVP, why people sometimes miscast the slugger and what the most amazing part of his offensive profile may be.  🌶️ Buy two months of BlueChew Gold and get the third for FREE with promo code FOUL at BlueChew.com Use code FOUL for 10% off at royalretros.com/discount/FOUL?aff=82 for vintage-inspired sports apparel celebrating classic teams, leagues and eras including the Houston Colt .45sSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tatsuya Imai, Steven Okert and Alimber Santa teamed to throw the 18th no-hitter in Houston Astros history in a 9-0 win against the Texas Rangers at Globe Life Field on May 25. Few of the other 17 felt more improbable. Tyler Stafford and The Athletic's Chandler Rome discuss Imai's six hitless innings and whether they showed any progress before digging into Santa — the first rookie since 1900 to appear in a no-hitter during his major-league debut.  🌶️ Use our code for 10% off your next SeatGeek order* seatgeek.onelink.me/RrnK/TERRITORY10 Sponsored by SeatGeek. *Restrictions apply. Max $20 discountSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For the first time since 2013, the Astros won a game at Wrigley Field. Even better, Houston swept the Chicago Cubs and, for the first time this season, has tangible momentum heading into a massive series in Arlington. Tyler Stafford and The Athletic's Chandler Rome break down the sweep, Christian Walker's continued resurgence, the stabilization of Houston's pitching staff and how the bullpen could use Josh Hader.  🌶️See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Astros catching prospect Jason Schiavone leads all of Minor League Baseball with 18 home runs and just received a promotion to Double-A Corpus Christi. Schiavone joins Tyler Stafford and The Athletic's Chandler Rome to discuss his breakout season, some swing adjustments that have allowed him to unlock power, the nuances of calling games as a catcher and what his goals are for the remainder of his season in Double-A.  🌶️ If you like your money, Mint Mobile is for you. Plans start at $15/month at MintMobile.com/Territory See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Down Jose Altuve, Carlos Correa and Yainer Diaz, the Astros have one of baseball's worst offenses in May and are watching their season start to slip away. Former Astros outfielder Josh Reddick joins Tyler Stafford and The Athletic's Chandler Rome to discuss the Astros' dispiriting series loss to the Twins, the disastrous state of their lineup and what — if anything — can be done to fix it. The trio also discusses Tatsuya Imai's step forward and Lance McCullers Jr.'s latest trip to the injured list.  🌶️ Use code FOUL for 10% off at royalretros.com/discount/FOUL?aff=82 for vintage-inspired sports apparel celebrating classic teams, leagues and eras including the Houston Colt .45sSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Astros had perhaps their most satisfying series win of the season, taking two of three from their intrastate rival Texas Rangers while staying afloat in the AL West. Tyler Stafford and The Athletic's Chandler Rome break down the series win, Spencer Arrighetti's excellent performance and his powerful quote after it before analyzing Jose Altuve's oblique injury and what it means for the rest of the Astros' roster. 🌶️ Subscribe to Crush City Territory on YouTube See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Astros were outscored 24-10 en route to losing three out of four games against the Seattle Mariners. They're now 11 games below .500 and 6.5 games back in the American League West. Former Astros outfielder Josh Reddick joins Tyler Stafford and The Athletic's Chandler Rome to search for solutions and things that offer hope before breaking down Tatsuya Imai's dismal return to a major-league mound.  🌶️ Use code FOUL for 10% off at royalretros.com/discount/FOUL?aff=82 for vintage-inspired sports apparel celebrating classic teams, leagues and eras including the Houston Colt .45sSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.