Yordan Alvarez talks about the Astros' advancement to the World Series, and the success they had in beating the Red Sox. (1:46).
Alvarez: Astros show we are the best league team (1:46).
HOUSTON -- Houston Astros have remained true to their theme since 2019 when they returned to the national stage following the scandal of sign-stealing. They don't want to prove anything, except that they are the best team in the game.
They will have a chance to show that starting Tuesday, when they face the Atlanta Braves in Game 1.
Alex Bregman, third baseman, said Monday that he was not concerned about narratives. "I don't worry about any of this. "I want to win four more games."
The Astros were found electronically stealing signs during their 2017 World Series run. This was a violation of MLB rules. Both AJ Hinch, the manager, and Jeff Luhnow, the general manager, were fired.
While the league didn't punish the players, they did heckle and taunt opposing fan groups while on the road. Atlanta hosts Games 3 through 5.
Michael Brantley, left fielder, said that "We get it wherever we go." This team is unique because they've been there, done that. We've seen it all.
"There is no stage large enough. We don't need a crowd to keep us on our toes.
Bregman, Jose Altuve, second baseman, and Carlos Correa, shortstop are all holdovers from the 2017 team and draw the most boos. All of them were asked the same question: Does winning the World Series in 2020 prove that they are the best team, or do they cheat?
Correa stated, "I don’t believe the outside noise motivates me at all." "The guys in [the clubhouse] - we motivate ourselves to be better every day and you can see the results on field."
Altuve said: "I haven’t thought about it, but I think that we have the same mindset as we always had, just going out and trying to win. This is a special team... We all want the win.
After the scandal, Dusty Baker was appointed manager to act as a settling force. He preached the importance of letting go negative emotions, because they can only motivate you so far.
Baker stated, "I believe this team is way beyond that because they know how to play." "You cannot be driven by 'I will show you' or by negative motivation.
Jim Crane, Astros owner, admits that the scandal is constantly in front of them on a daily basis. But winning this year could help them put it behind them.
The players are fine sticking together and letting the game play out.
Brantley stated, "We believe in each other, and we trust one another."
