Ranking the Astros' concerns after a 6-10 start: From Joe Espada to Bryan Abreu

SEATTLE — This pitiful start has a precedent. Two seasons ago, the Houston Astros lost 18 of their first 25 games, creating a deficit few clubs have ever overcome to clinch a playoff spot. In doing so, it became the first team in major-league history to start 7-18 and still win a division title.Perhaps that can provide solace to this struggling ballclub. A 6-1 loss against the Seattle Mariners on Sunday extended Houston’s losing streak to seven games. The 2019 team that won a franchise-record 107 times also had a seven-game losing streak. Any positives are accepted at times like this.Advertisement