What happened: On MLB Network's MLB Central, analyst Tom Verducci said Yordan Alvarez is the best pure hitter in the major leagues right now. Verducci drew a distinction in describing Alvarez's approach, calling him "not just a home run hitter" but "a pure hitter who hits home runs." The segment broke down what separates the Houston slugger at the plate.
Why it matters: Verducci's endorsement spotlights Alvarez as the engine of Houston's offense as the club fights to climb back above .500 at 36-41. The veteran analyst, who recently broke down Kyle Harrison's breakout season, framed Alvarez as a complete hitter rather than a one-dimensional slugger.
By the numbers: Houston enters the day at 36-41 on the season, winners of three straight, averaging 4.6 runs per game while allowing 5.0.
What to watch: Watch whether Alvarez's bat keeps powering the Astros as they look to extend their three-game win streak during the homestand.