The Athletic has released its MLB All-Quarter Century team, and five Houston Astros made the cut. The team’s honorees were chosen by fans, showcasing the Astros’ dominance over the past 25 years.
Jose Altuve is included as the best second baseman of the last quarter century. A seven-time Silver Slugger and one-time Gold Glove winner, Altuve has also won an AL MVP in 2017 and made nine All-Star teams.
Carlos Beltrán is listed as one of the two center fielders honored. The former Astro played 90 games for the team in 2004 before ending his career with a World Series win in 2017. His hardware includes nine All-Stars, two Silver Sluggers, and three Gold Gloves.
Justin Verlander and Randy Johnson were both selected as starting pitchers. Verlander had a career revival at age 35 when he joined the Astros and won two of his three Cy Youngs with the team. He also has an AL MVP and Rookie of the Year award.
Billy Wagner is included as one of the team’s closing pitchers. A seven-time All-Star, Wagner played nine seasons for the Astros before being inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame.
The Athletic’s Jayson Stark praised Daikin Park, naming it the top ballpark among fans. He stated that while it may not be a living history museum or a modern marvel, it is essential to telling the story of baseball in the 2000s, citing its significance in Houston’s baseball history.
Source: https://www.sportingnews.com/us/mlb/houston-astros/news/five-current-or-former-astros-and-one-ballpark-honored-fans/0156263e1c74a4138e64bbda