Houston Astros face postseason pressure amid slump and injuries

The Houston Astros are facing a late-season decline, falling below a .500 winning percentage following a series sweep by the Atlanta Braves. The team currently sits one game behind the Texas Rangers for the lead in the American League West and is trailing in the race for a postseason bye.

Star hitter Yordan Alvarez expressed significant frustration regarding the team's recent performance, describing the weekend's losses as “three slaps in the face.” Alvarez reportedly called a team meeting to address the club's struggles after the recent losses.

Compounding the team's difficulties is an injury to reliever Steven Okert. The 35-year-old veteran has been sidelined with a hamstring strain since early September. While he is reportedly on track to return for the playoffs, he may not pitch again during the regular season if the Astros fail to qualify for the postseason.