There is talk that the 2019 Houston Astros' offense could be the best in MLB history. If they keep hitting at their current pace, that could be entirely possible and the team would have Michael Brantley to thank for the amazing achievement.
Since signing the veteran outfielder to a 2-year, $32 million contract this past offseason, all Brantley has done is rake in the middle of an Astros lineup that also includes cornerstones Alex Bregman, George Springer, Carlos Correa and Jose Altuve.
Brantley's .331 batting average and 58 hits lead the AL, as does his impressive count of 22 multi-hit games. Not to mention, his .933 OPS is a career-high and among the league's best. Brantley has also hit 10 home runs and driven in 32 runs, proving that Houston's decision to gamble on the oft-injured outfielder is more than paying dividends.
Brantley was always renowned for his high ceiling during his tenure with the Cleveland Indians, but could never quite maximize on his potential due to various injuries. With a change of scenery and new contract, it seems as if Brantley has been a better value signing than some of his more expensive counterparts, namely Bryce Harper and Manny Machado.
While the Phillies and Padres opted for lucrative and lengthy contracts to lock down star players, the Astros were able to find a steal in Brantley and will pay him around half of what the aforementioned duo is earning. Seems like a pretty good deal for the 'Stros.