These have been some very good days to keep an eye on your Astros, haven't they? Many things are floating around our heads after this final game against the Rangers:

- It looks like the Rangers will always pound the Astros no matter what. It was different today, though. It was to be expected to see one or two losses in a row for the 'Stros after this latest roll. We don't think losing will become a new pattern in the near future.

- Lance Berkman, Lance Berkman, Lance Berkman. He finished this game very near the .400 mark (just one tiny point). This run by the Houston first baseman has been unbelievable. He has always been a top-notch ballplayer, but what he's done these past few days defies description. It's a 17-game hitting streak now, folks. You'll see something we wrote on him very soon at Cronicas de los Astros, the Spanish-language official magazine.

- We hope Roy Oswalt's pain is not an indication of anything too big. Oswalt has been a factor of stability among a very shaky starting rotation. And there are a few days left for Wandy's return.

- José Valverde has picked up the pace. Thank God. This team is not Berkman alone, they have  "a truck full of lumber" as they say where I come from. But the pitching is always a reason for concern.

- Some interesting series we have coming up. Astros, Cubs, a division rivalry, Berkman on fire. What else can you ask for? The Juicebox should be packed.

In our latest article for astrosdehouston.com we discussed the possibilities the Astros might have for the month ahead and a bit beyond, considering they reached .500 again. It all depends on whether they can keep their act together, the offense will remain a force to be reckoned with, certain improvements on the starting pitching front and the bullpen. And oh yes, if the closer can effectively close.

Last night the Astros got their fourth win in a row, this time against the Washington Nationals. There are things which are truly remarkable during these past few days: Lance Berkman is carrying this team, becoming for the time being a certain Triple Crown threat. He's not just belting out hits and homers, but he is also doing the job in more ways than one. Did you see how he was running the bases last night? Amazing for a guy of his build. Carlos Lee joined the party. Miguel Tejada is also restless, so much in fact they want him to sit down for a game considering the non-stop game schedule the team is facing right now. Shawn Chacon was efficient, not brilliant but effective enough and that's what matters.

Jose Valverde got the save. (Well, Valverde has improved immensely, product of evaluating what was happening to him and taking time to face batters and not hurrying things up). He was on the spot and quick. That is what was needed, especially for a game so close such as last night's.

That was yet another come-from-behind victory. That's a trademark of good ballclubs: Being able to overcome adverse situations and coming from behind. We can't say Houston will reach October just yet, but at least they will give us some good baseball to watch.