The MLB world has been anticipating a Yankees, and Astros ALCS and that is exactly what we got.
The two best teams in the American League will take the field on Tuesday for the beginning of their best-of-7 series.
Both of these teams are loaded with talent.
But, a few of the lesser-known players could make an impact on who moves on to the World Series.
Here are three players who could decide the ALCS.
Anthony Rizzo, New York Yankees
As a former champion, plenty of pressure is on Anthony Rizzo to perform in the ALCS.
The former Chicago Cub won the World Series in 2016, and now has a chance to return this year.
He will be a player that the younger Yankees follow as they get ready for the biggest series of their careers.
Rizzo could be the main reason the Yankees win this series.
He usually bats third in the lineup, which is right behind Aaron Judge.
Rizzo will have plenty of opportunities to drive in runs with teams pitching around the soon-to-be-named AL MVP.
Look for the former World Series champion to play well in this first ALCS in New York.
Framber Valdez, Houston Astros
The best pitcher in the MLB that no one knows about is Framber Valdez.
The lefty has been dominant this season and will finish top three in AL Cy Young voting.
But, his season will be remembered by the MLB record 25 consecutive quality starts he had in the regular season.
The streak continues!
Framber Valdez sets a new MLB single-season record with his 25th straight quality start! 👏 pic.twitter.com/qgK6PdMM8H
— MLB (@MLB) September 18, 2022
Valdez is a great pitcher and he will need his best to help shut down the Yankees in game two.
Jeremy Pena, Houston Astros
The Astros were not able to re-sign Carlos Correa in the offseason, and many wondered how they would replace him.
Well, rookie Jeremy Pena has been awesome this year for the Astros.
Pena hit 22 home runs in the regular season including 63 RBIs and 11 stolen bases.
In game three of the NLDS, Pena hit the game-winning home run in the 18th inning.
JEREMY PEÑA BREAKS THE SCORELESS TIE IN THE 18TH!!!
(via @mlb)pic.twitter.com/IeZrNr7TfQ
— FOX Sports: MLB (@MLBONFOX) October 16, 2022
The rookie will need another big series to help Houston get back to the fall classic.
NEXT: The Astros Have Been Perfect For Weeks