Yordan Alvarez Seeks to End Home Run Drought in Houston

Yordan Alvarez Seeks to End Home Run Drought in Houston

Yordan Alvarez, the Houston Astros slugger, has not hit a home run since July 28th, a 17-day drought that has seen him generate quality contact despite the lack of long balls. Alvarez enters Friday's matchup against the Seattle Mariners with a number one matchup rating on Batters-Box, where he has left the yard nearly 37% of the time in 19 home games this season.

Why it Matters for Yordan Alvarez

Alvarez's home run drought has been a topic of discussion, with some questioning whether he is "due" for a long ball. However, the numbers suggest that he is still generating quality contact, with a 50% hard-hit rate and 21.4% barrel rate over his last five games.

What Comes Next?

Alvarez will face Seattle Mariners right-hander George Kirby, who has struggled against left-handed hitters this season. Kirby has allowed 2.57 HR/9 to his last 60 left-handed hitters faced, while those hitters are elevating the baseball at nearly a 78% clip. This matchup could be a prime opportunity for Alvarez to break his home run drought.

Key Takeaways:

• Yordan Alvarez has not hit a home run since July 28th.
• Alvarez has a 50% hard-hit rate and 21.4% barrel rate over his last five games.
• George Kirby has struggled against left-handed hitters this season.
• Alvarez has a number one matchup rating on Batters-Box in 19 home games this season.

Stats Table:

Where to Watch: SCHN, SEAM

Time: 8:10 p.m. ET

Category: player_focus