Houston's defense has become a focal point as Jose Altuve shifts to left field, with his defensive woes dragging the Astros. Altuve's minus-13 Defensive Runs Saved and a Fielding Run Value of minus-5 place him among MLB's least effective defenders this season, even as his bat remains vital.

Right field has emerged as a strength with Cam Smith (10 DRS) and Jesus Sanchez (8 DRS) delivering elite defense, while Jake Meyers handles center with 6 DRS in limited innings. Mauricio Dubon adds solid outfield defense, and even Yordan Alvarez carries a modest defensive burden. The Astros likely lean into DH at-bats for Altuve to protect the lineup while maximizing his offense.

Cam Smith’s first homer in two months capped a breakthrough night as he battles through a tough second half by focusing on getting out of his own way and staying mentally prepared. Houston’s rookie is navigating a full season with adjustments in a platoon-heavy right field alongside Jesús Sánchez, while veterans Yordan Alvarez and Framber Valdez anchor the lineup and mound. Houston’s pitching staff reshuffles, with Lance McCullers Jr. moving to the bullpen to spark a return, and SalazarSlim Salazar César Salazar called up as Caratini lands on the concussion IL. The Rockies present a stern test, but the Astros’ depth and mental resilience shine as the stretch run approaches.

Augmenting Smith’s growth are the Astros’ surrounding pieces. Yainer Diaz’s hand soreness opens a door for César Salazar, while Caratini’s status and Sánchez’s lefty bat shape the outfield balance. Alvarez and Valdez deliver a confident blueprint for late-season success, and Espada’s endorsement underscores Houston’s belief in Smith’s long-term ceiling. The night hints at a stronger, more composed Astros—on offense and in the bullpen—as they chase a playoff berth.

Houston visits Detroit on a night when the Astros have been blanked for 22 straight runs across two games, placing pressure on a lineup that has failed to wake up. Tarik Skubal takes the mound for Detroit after an 11-3 mark with a 2.42 ERA, while Houston counters with Hunter Brown at 10-5 with a 2.45 ERA. Comerica Park hosts a marquee pitching duel that could determine whether fantasy managers should chase Skubal’s upside or cautiously ride Brown’s steadiness against an offense in a funk. The broadcast slate includes Space City Home Network and TV coverage on TBS for out-of-market viewers; radio options are 790 AM and 93.3 FM. Off the field, Houston’s bats have been quiet, prompting questions about timing and approach. Jesús Sánchez offered a candid note about feeling off at the plate, a subtle reminder that even players in good form can stumble. In DFS terms, Skubal looks like a strong bet to deliver a quality start given the Tigers’ right-handed leaning lineup, while Brown provides a viable depth option if you’re chasing continued trust in Houston’s rotation.