Even though they’ve been absent José Altuve since May 10, George Springer since May 24 and Carlos Correa since May 26, the Astros have maintained a top-two offense in baseball.



Coming into their series opener against the Brewers on Tuesday night, they ranked second in the majors in batting average (.267), second in on-base percentage (.341) and second in slugging (.470). Their .811 OPS also ranked second, behind the Twins (.856).



Their roster might not be full strength again until after the All-Star break, as Correa (fractured rib) is still weeks away from even embarking on a minor league rehab assignment. Utility infielder Aledmys Díaz (left hamstring strain) also isn’t as close to returning as expected after his setback on Sunday.



But with the returns of Altuve (right leg soreness) and Springer (left hamstring strain) looming and Yordan Alvarez now in the majors, the Astros can start to dream on the potential of their full-strength...