Astros, Rangers, Tigers Eye Advantages From AL Rivals' Spring Injuries

The Houston Astros are preparing for the 2025 season amidst significant roster changes and the ongoing injuries plaguing the New York Yankees. The Astros, despite losing some key players, are still viewed as a playoff-caliber team, with a strong pitching rotation that could give them an advantage over the Yankees, especially now that ace Gerrit Cole is set to miss the entire season due to Tommy John surgery. Giancarlo Stanton's severe elbow injuries and other Yankees' injuries, including DJ LeMahieu's calf issue and Luis Gil's lat strain, further complicate New York's situation. Meanwhile, the Astros are also looking to their young prospects like Jaworsky, Santos, and Sullivan to potentially breakout in the upcoming season. The Texas Rangers are emerging as strong contenders for the AL pennant as well, capitalizing on the Yankees' misfortunes. Overall, the Astros could benefit from the injury woes of their rivals as they strive for a ninth consecutive postseason appearance.