For starters, Springer goes deep (again)
Astros' slugger has record 4 leadoff HRs in 9 games
SEATTLE - Another day, another leadoff homer for Astros outfielder George Springer.
Springer crushed the first pitch thrown by Mariners starter Ariel Miranda in a 7-5 win on Tuesday night at Safeco Field, sending it 416 feet over the wall in left field, according to Statcast™. Springer has four leadoff homers in the first nine games of the season, which is a Major League record.
"I'm honestly just trying to hit the ball hard and trying to get to first base," said Springer, who leads the Majors with five homers. "I know who's behind me. So if I get to first base, that's my plan."
Springer has 13 leadoff homers in his career, which ties him with Terry Puhl for second place on the Astros' all-time list. Hall of Famer Craig Biggio has the club record with 53 career leadoff home runs, so Springer has some work to do if he wants to catch Biggio.
Springer hit eight leadoff home runs last year, which tied a single-season record set by Biggio in 2001. Tuesday's leadoff homer means Springer has driven in nine of the Astros' 28 runs this season.
"For me, Springer is not only one of the best players on this team, but one of the best players in the league," second baseman Jose Altuve said. "What can I say? He does it all. He plays really good defense, he runs the bases really good, he hits for power, he hits for average. I feel I'm in love with him, the way he plays. What else can I say about him?"