Playing in the MLB postseason is something that true baseball fans dream about when they are little kids.
Who hasn’t been a part of an imaginary setting involving a walk-off home run in the playoffs?
Houston Astros rookie Jeremy Pena is one of the lucky, hard-working people who will actually have the chance to live his dream.
“Jeremy Pena: ‘I’ve thought about this moment since I was, what, eight years old. It’s a dream come true,'” Astros insider Brian McTaggart tweeted after interviewing the young shortstop.
Jeremy Pena: “I’ve thought about this moment since I was, what, eight years old. It’s a dream come true.” pic.twitter.com/3oRgKLZcYM
— Brian McTaggart (@brianmctaggart) October 10, 2022
Pena, who recently turned 25, was tasked with the colossal responsibility of replacing Carlos Correa‘s production on the field and at the plate.
He didn’t quite close his year as well as he opened it, but his final numbers were very impressive for a rookie.
An Important Piece Of The Astros Puzzle
In 558 plate appearances, Pena slashed .253/.289/.426 with 22 home runs, 11 stolen bases, and a 102 wRC+.
Like Correa, he played phenomenal defense at shortstop.
For his first season in the major leagues, the results have been satisfactory.
Now, his determination, resolve, and ability to handle pressure will all be tested.
Comparing him to Correa, who is a postseason hero in Houston, may not be fair to him, but 2022 presents the opportunity to start building a similar playoff resume for Pena.
He has some big shoes to fill, and so far, he has been very good considering his tall task.
He doesn’t have to be Correa: he is, and has been, his own version of an MLB young player.
Pena will be very important in Houston’s quest for the World Series again.
What kind of postseason will he have?
We will find out this week.
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