Astros Take 3-2 Lead Over Rangers in ALCS After Benches Clear
In a wild and testy game, the Houston Astros took a 3-2 lead over the Texas Rangers in the AL Championship Series after a decisive 5-4 victory. The game was marked by a bench-clearing fracas and a game-winning three-run homer by Jose Altuve in the ninth inning.
Altuve, known for thriving under pressure, delivered in the clutch once again with his 26th career postseason homer. His home run, second in major league history behind Manny Ramirez, propelled the Astros to victory and put them one win away from a third consecutive pennant.
The game took a heated turn when Rangers slugger Adolis García was hit by a 98mph fastball from Bryan Abreu. García immediately confronted catcher Martín Maldonado, and tensions escalated quickly. While no punches were thrown, both García and Abreu were ejected, along with Houston manager Dusty Baker.
Following the ejections, the Astros rallied in the ninth inning. Pinch-hitter Yainer Diaz and pinch-hitter Jon Singleton both reached base, setting the stage for Altuve’s heroics. Altuve, playing in his 101st postseason game, smashed an 0-1 changeup over the left-field fence, securing the win for Houston.
Despite the intense rivalry between the two teams, Altuve remained calm and focused throughout the game. His ability to stay composed in high-pressure situations has earned him praise from his manager, Dusty Baker, who called him “one of the baddest dudes” he’s ever seen.
The ALCS matchup between the Astros and the Rangers has been intense, with the visiting team winning every game. Game 6 is set to take place in Houston, and the Astros will look to continue their winning streak on their home turf.
In the NL Championship Series, the Arizona Diamondbacks pulled off a stunning 6-5 victory over the Philadelphia Phillies. With a three-run eighth inning rally, highlighted by a tying two-run homer from Alek Thomas and a go-ahead single from Gabriel Moreno, the Diamondbacks evened the series at 2-2.
Arizona, making their first postseason appearance since 2017, had lost the first two games of the series but showed resilience in their comeback win. The sellout crowd at Chase Field erupted as Thomas’ home run splashed into the right-center field swimming pool.
The series will continue with Game 5 on Saturday night, where both teams will look to gain momentum and take control. It has been a thrilling postseason for both the Astros and the Diamondbacks, and fans can expect even more excitement and drama in the coming games.