A quick hit: Batting machine

As September progresses, I'll be writing a few articles in this session called “A quick hit”, on hot topics in coverage of Cuban players in MLB, all-time records, surprising news and, well, any hit or quick pitch that's impactful in today's world! the baseball! Yeah, that's the idea: to bring some fresh stories here at just the right time. I hope you enjoy them, and if you haven't subscribed, you're invited to Inside Baseball. —Yirsandy Rodriguez.

At first glance, it seems really easy.

You see Yordan Álvarez prepare his hands. In unison, as he tries to spot the pitch, he takes a short step, maintains his balance, and then in split seconds decides if it's time to unleash his menacing swing. But the hype around the Houston Astros' Cuban slugger begins before you even see how he approaches his plate visit.

Yordan, 26, has known how to make a difference with his ability to mix contact, power and discipline at the plate, three tools that have placed him among the most consistent hitters in the Major Leagues since his debut in 2019.