Astros well-positioned for second half

The Astros are within one game of leading the American League West heading into this week's All-Star break, inching closer to a division lead after a 10-game deficit earlier this season.

Why it matters: The team — minus outfielder Yordan Álvarez, who will play in the All Star Game — will be able to rest up as the National and American leagues duke it out Tuesday in Arlington .

• Second baseman José Altuve and outfielder Kyle Tucker were voted All Stars but will not play due to injuries.

The intrigue: After a humbling start this year , the team sits at 50-46 (.521) going into the second half.

State of play: The Astros are fresh off of losing two games in a row to the Texas Rangers after sweeping the Miami Marlins, Colorado Rockies and Baltimore Orioles in their previous three series at Minute Maid Park.

• Despite the Rangers snapping the Astros' 10-game home winning streak Saturday, the team has shown a marked improvement from last season, when they struggled to win games in Houston.
• They ended the 2023 season with a 39-42 (.481) record at Minute Maid. They're 28-21 (.592) at home through the first half of the 2024 campaign.

💭 Jay's thought bubble: Haters be damned , Houston is no stranger to coming back from behind, and I'm manifesting that their prowess on the field will prevail.

• That tends to happen when they're counted out and is even further proved when the Bayou City faces adversity from natural disasters .

What's next: The Astros start a four-game series Friday against the AL West-leading Mariners in Seattle.

• Their next homestand starts July 26 against the Los Angeles Dodgers.