Astros Even Series with Dominant Win Over Rangers in ALCS Game 4
The Houston Astros bounced back with a commanding 10-3 victory over the Texas Rangers in Game 4 of the ALCS, leveling the series at two games apiece. Both starting pitchers struggled early on, allowing a combined six runs in just three innings of work.
Corey Seager broke his ALCS slump with a crucial home run, while Astros first baseman José Abreu continued his postseason power surge by hitting his fourth home run. The Astros’ lead was briefly in danger in the bottom of the fifth, but a controversial double play call after a replay review helped squash the Rangers’ threat.
Before the game, much discussion centered around the decision to leave the roof open at Globe Life Field. However, it was the visiting Astros who benefited from the generally hitter-friendly conditions.
With the series now tied, Game 5 will take place in Arlington, guaranteeing a Game 6 back in Houston.
Here are some takeaways from Game 4:
Andrew Heaney had a disastrous start, giving the Rangers only two outs in his Game 4 outing. He allowed three runs on four hits with a walk and no strikeouts. This put the Rangers in a difficult position early on and raised concerns about bullpen fatigue going into Game 5.
On the Astros’ side, José Urquidy was given an early 3-0 lead but struggled to hold onto it. He allowed a home run and the Rangers were able to tie the game by the third inning. Ryne Stanek relieved Urquidy and prevented further damage with an inning-ending double play.
Yordan Alvarez, the standout hitter of the 2023 postseason, narrowly missed hitting a grand slam in the fourth inning, settling for a sac fly that gave the Astros a 4-3 lead. José Abreu then followed up with a massive 438-foot home run, solidifying the Astros’ advantage.
With the series now tied and the Astros holding home-field advantage, the ALCS has become a best-of-three series. The Astros have been stronger on the road this season, and the road team has remained undefeated in the playoffs thus far.
Game 5 will be crucial for both teams, as the team that takes a 3-2 lead in a best-of-seven series historically has a significant advantage, winning over 70% of the time. The pitching matchup will feature a rematch of Game 1, with Justin Verlander taking the mound for the Astros against Jordan Montgomery.
Baseball fans can look forward to an intense and decisive Game 5, scheduled for 5:07 p.m. ET.