Rising Apple staff’s picks for the 2017 postseason

Emmanuel Pepis – Houston Astros

There is no shortage of rooting interests for Mets fans in this postseason. Many veterans on the 2017 club were traded away to contenders so depending on who your individual favorites were, then the answer is easy.

I have a ton of respect for what Curtis Granderson, Jay Bruce, Addison Reed, and Rene Rivera did for this organization before going to playoff teams. My rooting interest lies with a team that I believe is the most fun to watch:

The Houston Astros.

The rooting interest for me goes to this group of young talent. Jose Altuve would be my vote for American League MVP. Carlos Correa is an exciting shortstop to watch. George Springer is one of the most dynamic lead-off hitters currently in the game.

One of the top flight pitchers in recent memory in Justin Verlander has his best chance for a ring in a while. He appeared in four American League championship series and one World Series (2006). Verlander has been lights out since joining the Astros via trade (5-0 in five starts with a 1.06 ERA and 43 K in 34.1 IP).

Dallas Keuchel rebounded off a tough 2016 campaign. Marwin Gonzalez became one of the unsung players on this roster with a breakout year. Everything came into place for the Astros who had only their second 100-plus win season in team history.

Next: Mets: Free agent options for the hot corner

Then there’s Beltran. Some fans may still be sour about how 2006 ended, but he still provided some great years in New York. And he’s one of the more decorated current players without a World Series ring. It would be nice to see him get one before he retires. At age 40, this may be his last chance to do it.