Astros wait for the real fun to start, and some tough decisions await

Your daily sports update from the Houston Chronicle.

View in browser FALL SALE! Unlimited Digital Access: 6 Months for 99¢. Subscribe Today. Good morning. Here are the top sports stories around Houston today: Photo: Karen Warren, Staff Photographer Key decisions await Twelve or 13 pitchers? Two or three catchers? And what about extra-inning preparedness? General manager James Click will weigh it all as the Astros determined their roster for the American League Division Series.   Now, the tough part. With the expanded playoffs, Houston won't start ALDS play until Tuesday, when the real fever pitch begins, writes Brian T. Smith.   Can he chip in? Linebacker Christian Harris, the Texans' third-round pick, is back practicing. Could he help give an embattled defense a boost?   Making the pieces fit If maximum scoring is to be unlocked, creating space via crisp ball movement will be the key for this season's Rockets.   A mixed bag A look at the highs and lows on defense for UH, which has overcome injuries but still had letdowns in three losses.   Greg Rajan Texas Sports Nation editor greg.rajan@chron.com Sponsored Content   Shopping Target's holiday Deal Days are coming even earlier this year Here's hoping you've got your holiday budget already sorted out.   Shopping Elevate the ambience of any room with a $12 set of wireless puck lights Set the mood.   FALL SALE: Get 6 Months for 99¢ Unlimited Digital Access Act Now No Commitment | Cancel Anytime Unsubscribe  |  Manage Preferences  |  Privacy Notice Houston Chronicle 4747 Southwest Freeway, Houston, TX 77027 © 2022 Hearst Communications