Join Eric and Brett for the Locked On Astros podcast as the Astros are rumored to be close to bringing in a new hitting coach.
Houston Astros tap Victor Rodriguez as their new hitting coach, bringing a contact-first philosophy that could revolutionize an offense that scored three runs or fewer in half their games last season. Can Rodriguez's approach—which produced baseball's lowest strikeout rate with the Padres—fix the Astros' second-highest chase rate and transform struggling hitters?

Eric Huysman and Brett Chancey break down Rodriguez's 29-year coaching career and his emphasis on making contact over launch angles. The discussion covers Jose Altuve's aggressive tendencies, Yainer Diaz's regression, Jeremy Pena's plate discipline, and Yordan Alvarez's injury-plagued campaign. Key statistics reveal the Astros needed just four runs to win most games, highlighting their offensive limitations despite historically low strikeout numbers.

The hosts analyze potential roster additions including Jorge Polanco and Pete Alonso, examine why the team led baseball in double plays, and project how Rodriguez's philosophy shift could impact the 2026 season. With health and a new approach, could the Astros offense finally reach its ceiling?

0:00 Intro
0:38 Victor Rodriguez as new hitting coach
4:09 Astros need more patient aggressive approach
9:31 Jordan Alvarez health concerns and struggles
18:07 Potential free agent targets and roster moves
26:28 Pete Alonso discussion and offensive outlook

Tune in for complete statistical breakdowns and player-by-player analysis of Houston's offensive transformation.
Locked On Astros is your daily Houston Astros podcast, hosted by Eric Huysman and Brett Chancey. As part of the Locked On Podcast Network, we bring you the latest Astros news, in-depth game analysis, player updates, and exclusive insights — every single weekday.
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