Houston Astros March To World Series Resumes This Weekend

HOUSTON, TX — The quest of making the 2017 World Series picks back up tonight for the American League-leading Houston Astros when they host the Minnesota Twins for a three-game series at Minute Maid Park. While the Astros are a favorite to run away with the American League West and finish with the best record in the AL, it's not irrational to think moves won't be made before the trade deadline this month.

The Astros, who sent six players to this week's MLB All-Star Game in Miami, have a 10-game lead over the Boston Red Sox in the American League. The Astros are 60-29 and are on pace to win 108 games this season.

One baseball writer who covers the Astros for a national website believes Houston could add another starting pitcher to the rotation to enhance the club's opportunity at winning its first World Series in franchise history.

"Adding another starter would give the Astros another weapon and set them up better for a chance at winning the World Series," said Brian Mactaggart of mlb.com. "I still think they'll acquire a starting pitcher — and a relief pitcher — because at this point, it would behoove them to take their absolute best shot at winning it all. Leave as little to chance as possible."

Tonight kicks off the second half of the season with six-game home stand. The Settle Mariners come to town Monday through Wednesday. The Astros will hit the road for a week and a half for three straight series — Baltimore, Philadelphia and Detroit — before returning home July 31 to take on Tampa Bay.

More at mlb.com.

Caption: Houston Astros left fielder Norichika Aoki warms up before a baseball game against the Minnesota Twins Friday, July 14, 2017, in Houston.

Photo via David J. Phillip/Associated Press