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As Astros Near Historic ALCS Matchup, Houston’s Clutch Pitcher Ranks Alongside Legendary Yankees Hurler in Top List

Published 10/15/2023, 11:00 AM EDT

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It is quite a big feat for baseball players to stand out juxtaposed with legends. Born and raised in Dallas, this Houston Astros pitcher sports his state tattooed on his back and is hardly ever seen outside of cowboy boots. Whereas his spouse, Kat, was raised in Houston and was formerly a cheerleader for the Dallas Cowboys. Just when one thought it would not get more Texan, it did! Amid the Rangers vs Astors’ highly anticipated saucy showdown, the Astros’ pitcher is making waves in an exclusive club. 

As the world sets foot into the competitiveness of the playoffs, the Houston Astros’ closer, Ryan Pressly has caused a buzz. Throughout his postseason career, Pressly has demonstrated a rare blend of precision, nerve, and an unshakeable will to succeed. This has rightly led him to stand alongside legendary Yankees achievers.

Joining Hands With The Elite, Including Mariano Rivera 

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As the Astros inch closer to a historic ALCS matchup, Ryan Pressly’s remarkable performance on the mound has propelled him into the ranks of some of the greatest relievers in the Wild Card Era. With an awe-inspiring 36 scoreless appearances in the postseason, the 34-year-old has secured his place among the elite. At the pinnacle of this exclusive list stands none other than the incomparable Mariano Rivera. The names on that list are a testament to the herculean feat that the Dallas-born has achieved. 

Astros closer Ryan Pressly is the player who portrays the Lone Star State the best. Taking into consideration all those participating in the 2023 American League Championship Series. Addressing the Texas Rangers vs. Houston Astros game on Sunday night, he articulated his excitement.

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His words were, “It’s going to be rowdy, but I think the crowd is going to be 50-50 when we’re up there [in Arlington]. It will be fun. I’m excited to be able to go back up there and play some baseball”. That’s the kind of vigor one feels upon being juxtaposed with big names like Rivera.

Speaking of Rivera, one simply runs out of adjectives. His 85 scoreless appearances have become the main stuff of baseball annals. Rivera’s dominance in the postseason is etched into the memory of the sport. Hot on the former Yankees’ heels is Kenley Jansen, boasting impressive 47 scoreless appearances, showcasing his tenacity in clutch moments. Jeff Nelson and Ryan Madson follow closely with 46 and 43 respectively, displaying their own spirit in shutting down opponents when it matters most.

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That said, it is impossible to not circle back to Pressly’s prowess. He had a lot to express when he was asked about approaching his game against the Rangers.  

Ryan Pressly Comes With A Strong Taste of Texas

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The star pitcher said, “I think it’s just another game. You try to keep things as simple as you possibly can when you’re out there. You don’t want to try to do too much or overthink things. It’s just the same game like I said earlier this year. It’s just a lot more people are watching”. If that isn’t grace, then what is? Pressly is all set with his Texan attitude to hone his next game. 

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Written by:

Kanishka Prakash

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Kanishka Prakash is an MLB writer at EssentiallySports. She comes from an engineering college background and possesses prior experience in the business sector. Her affection for sports burgeoned during her adolescence, with MLB particularly captivating her attention.
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Edited by:

Deepanshi Bajaj