Healthy Yordan a threat to Bagwell's HR mark -- and key to playoff return

February 21, 2026 - 18:14

The Houston Astros' single-season home run record, a 47-homer benchmark set by franchise icon Jeff Bagwell in the year 2000, has stood unchallenged for over two decades. While Lance Berkman made a notable run years ago, a new and formidable threat has emerged in the heart of the Astros' lineup: a fully healthy Yordan Alvarez.

Entering a new campaign, the focus for the powerhouse designated hitter and outfielder is twofold. The first is a personal pursuit of Bagwell's storied mark, a feat that seems within reach for a player of Alvarez's prodigious power when he's on the field. The second, and far more critical goal for the team, is sustaining that health to fuel the Astros' return to the postseason.

Alvarez's impact is undeniable. His presence transforms the lineup, providing protection for other stars and creating a relentless offensive threat. The organization believes that a full season of his bat in the middle of the order is not just a key to individual milestones, but the essential ingredient for navigating the competitive American League and making another deep playoff run. His fitness and consistent availability are paramount to the club's championship aspirations.