¡Viva José! RT @astros: Hey @HoustonTexans, can we get your H-Town support for #JoseAltuve as #FaceofMLB? pic.twitter.com/7ZR51losQy — Houston Texans (@HoustonTexans) January 30, 2014
Both are recognized as top players in their profession. For Altuve, that recognition came earlier last week in the form of his second selection as an All-Star for the American League. The midsummer classic, airing tonight at 7:30 pm ET on FOX, determines home field advantage for the upcoming World Series.
Watt's resume speaks for itself, as the Texans defensive end is widely recognized as one of the best players in all of football. The former Wisconsin Badger was recently named number 12 in the NFL Network's 'Top 100' rankings. Watt, who captured Defensive Player of the Year honors in 2012, arguably had a better season in 2013.
J.J. Watt displayed some major arm velocity when he threw out the first pitch at the Houston Astros home opener Sunday, March 31.
Watt started in all 16 games and led the NFL in quarterback hits (46) and was second in tackles for loss (22). He set a career high with 117 tackles (71 solo) to go along with a team-best 10.5 sacks. He also had seven passes defensed, four forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries and two blocked kicks.
Altuve is having a banner season of his own, leading the major leagues in hits (130). He is second in the MLB in stolen bases (41) and third in batting average (.335). His selection on this year's All-Star team validates Altuve as one of the league's premier second baseman. Altuve was voted in by his peers, a distinction not lost on the Astros infielder.
Boston Red Sox manager John Farrell, who will call the shots for the American League in tonight's matchup, talked about Altuve's season up to this point.
"He's had a tremendous first half," Farrell said. "We'll get everybody to the field as we can. For him to be voted in by the players, I think, speaks volume to how he's viewed around the game by his peers, and he'll have a chance to showcase that on Tuesday."
