A Fourth-Inning Surge Changes the Game
The Houston Astros secured a narrow 3-2 victory over the Los Angeles Angels on Thursday at Daikin Park, driven by a pivotal three-run frame that shifted momentum in their favor. The win improved Houston’s record to 64-63, while the Angels fell to 50-77.
The game remained tight until the fourth inning, where Houston exploded for two runs to take the lead. A double by Guzman brought home both Lowe and Grissom, turning a 1-0 deficit into a 2-1 advantage. The Astros extended their lead later in the same frame when Jose Altuve doubled to left field, scoring Alvarez.
Alvarez reached third on the play, setting the stage for the final run of the inning.
Closing Out the Win
With the game on the line, Houston’s bullpen delivered a flawless performance after the starter departed. Bennett Sousa earned the win (1-1) by pitching 1 1/3 innings without allowing an earned run. He was followed by AJ Blubaugh (7 saves), Steven Okert (18 holds), Bryan Abreu (9 holds), and Josh Hader (18 saves), who all retired their batters in order or with minimal contact.
Hader closed the game with a scoreless inning, earning his 18th save of the season. The combined relief effort allowed zero earned runs over 4 2/3 innings, preserving the one-run margin.