The fact that the Astros haven't recovered to sniff contention since their 0-8 start to the season hasn't meant that they have given up all influence on the National League's tight playoff races. In the span of two weeks, the Astros have swept two contenders, dealing devastating blows to the Phillies and Cardinals.
Last week, they took four of four in Philadelphia, costing the two-time defending NL champions a chance to close ground on the then-sputtering Braves in the NL East or to open up a lead in the wild-card race. Then this week, Houston took three straight from St. Louis, allowing just two runs and letting Cincinnati grab control of the NL Central.
The Astros say they're still playing for themselves, and they're proud of their ability to throw a wrench in the...