Teams in the midst of a dynasty are normally confident, and they should be, based on the amount of success they've achieved during this time period.
That's been the case with the Houston Astros who continue to show that they're the class of the American League, even when not winning the final playoff series between AL foes.
Seven straight ALCS appearances, a record for any AL team, would suggest this.
Combining that with two World Series championships and six divisional titles since 2017, it's hard to argue the Astros aren't one of the best teams of any era, especially the modern one.
It's no wonder why Houston's superstar outfielder Kyle Tucker is feeling confident heading into the upcoming 2024 season.
"Personally, I think we have the best team in the league. That's the vibe around the clubhouse. You have to have that mindset, but you still have to earn it," he told reporters on Monday after the first full squad workout at Spring Training.
The Astros should certainly be feeling confident.
Justin Verlander is back with the team for the full year, Framber Valdez is expected to have a more consistent season, and their sluggers have made some tweaks that should make this one of the most dangerous lineups in the league once again.
As Houston found out last year when eliminated by the Texas Rangers despite holding multiple leads in the ALCS, baseball games aren't won on paper.
Like Tucker said, they still have to earn it.
The front office did a good job of continuing to keep this championship window open as they chase their franchise's third World Series title.
Based on how the players are feeling according to the right fielder, they are confident and ready to show that they truly are the best team in baseball.
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