The Houston Astros are 27-34 and seven games back of first place in the American League West.
They\'ve yet to climb above .500 this season. The Astros have been to the last seven American League Championship Series.
Even as the team has floundered, general manager Dana Brown has painted an optimistic picture about his club\'s chances.
Asked whether a poor performance over the next six to eight weeks could force the Astros to sell, Brown said the team \"would have to really fall apart\" to change direction. \"The pitching would have to be struggling. The hitters would have to be struggling. If there\'s any sign of hope, I can\'t see us doing it,\" he added.
