George Springer on Blake Snell: He's 'one of the best'

George Springer had high praise for Blake Snell. Robert Hanashiro-USA TODAY Sports

George Springer on facing Rays' Blake Snell: He's 'one of the best'

By Erin Walsh | Last updated 10/10/20

The Houston Astros will have their hands full when they take on the Tampa Bay Rays in Game 1 of the American League Championship Series on Sunday. Particularly because Blake Snell will be on the mound for Tampa Bay.

The former Cy Young winner will start his third consecutive series for the Rays, and he won't make things easy for Houston. Snell last pitched in a 9-3 loss to the New York Yankees in Game 1 of the American League Division Series, giving up four runs on six hits in five innings.

That doesn't characterize what Snell has been able to accomplish this season, though, and Astros outfielder George Springer praised him on Saturday.

#Astros George Springer on facing #Rays ace Blake Snell in Game 1: "He's tough man, one of the best.''
— Bob Nightengale (@BNightengale) October 10, 2020

The left-hander was 4-2 during the regular season with a 3.24 ERA and 63 strikeouts.

Against the Toronto Blue Jays in the AL Wild Card Series, Snell struck out a postseason career-high nine batters over 5.2 shutout innings. The Rays will be hoping Snell can put on a similar performance during Game 1 of the ALCS on Sunday.

Houston has yet to name a starter to counter Snell.

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