We say this every year. And in recent years the Astros seemed to save their effort for the closing run, rather than the starting game.
But this season, success in the first half of the season is more important than ever. The Unofficial Scorer at the Houston Chronicle analyzes the Astros schedule. This summary shows whether first half and second half game opponents are winning teams or losiing teams (based on their 2008 record).
Pre-ASB
Winning Teams 29
Losing Teams 60
Post-ASB
Winning Teams 58
Losing Teams 15
The Astros have a stretch in August and September in which they have 29 straight games against winning opponents. So, relying on a big closing finish in the last two months of the race is a tough task.
Since we are talking about getting out of the gate fast, it is only appropriate to watch a greyhound race.