What happened: Houston Astros slugger Yordan Alvarez currently leads Major League Baseball in home runs, runs batted in, on-base percentage, slugging percentage, and OPS+. His elite production at the plate has drawn comparisons to the disciplined approach of Freddie Freeman.
Why it matters: The surge positions Alvarez as a leading candidate in the American League Most Valuable Player race. The Houston Astros are leaning heavily on his bat following a 5-2 final victory over the Miami Marlins. Houston now leads that series 5-0 and sits at 50-49 overall with a three-game winning streak.
By the numbers: Alvarez has launched 34 home runs and driven in 77 runs while maintaining a .328 batting average and a 1.089 OPS. He is currently on pace for 53 home runs and 121 RBIs.
What to watch: Alvarez aims to maintain his offensive production as Houston pushes for postseason positioning.