Yordan Alvarez and Kyle Tucker each had four hits and hit back-to-back home runs in the Houston Astros’ 10-4 victory over the Los Angeles Angels. Victor Caratini also contributed with a three-run homer to support Astros’ pitcher Ronel Blanco, who improved his record to 12-6. Houston recorded a season-high 20 hits in the game and is now three games away from clinching the AL West crown.
Alvarez and Tucker’s consecutive home runs in the seventh inning, off Angels reliever Ryan Miller, marked the seventh time the Astros have achieved back-to-back homers this season. Tucker continued his strong performance with his second consecutive four-hit game, while Alvarez broke a hitless streak with 12 at-bats. The duo started the scoring for Houston with back-to-back doubles in the first inning, taking an early lead over the Angels.
Houston extended their lead with a four-run third inning, highlighted by Caratini’s three-run homer. Jake Meyers also contributed to the offensive effort by going 2 for 3 with a double, two walks, and a stolen base. Blanco delivered a solid performance on the mound, allowing two runs and striking out nine over six innings, lowering his ERA to 2.88, ranking third in the American League.
Angels’ starter Reid Detmers had a tough outing, being pulled after allowing the first four Astros’ batters to reach base in the third inning. Detmers surrendered seven runs and nine hits in his appearance against Houston. Offensively for the Angels, Logan O’Hoppe had a standout game, going 4 for 4 with a home run and two doubles, while Nolan Schanuel extended his hitting streak to a career-high 12 games.
In terms of injuries, Angels’ outfielder Jordyn Adams missed his second consecutive game due to right knee soreness. For the Astros, right-handed pitcher Tayler Scott was placed on the 15-day injured list because of a thoracic spine strain. Outfielder Chas McCormick, who has been sidelined since September 11 with a fractured right hand, showed progress by being able to grip a bat before the game.
The series will conclude on Sunday with Houston’s Spencer Arrighetti (7-13, 4.68 ERA) facing off against Los Angeles’ Griffin Canning (6-13, 5.16 ERA).