Astros 3, Rays 2
There is no skill or unique ability in winning one-run games. The teams that win a high percentage of one-run games one year, are no more likely to repeat that success the following year than any other team. In 2024, the Astros have won less than 40% of one-run games, some mean reversion was bound to happen…
Yusei Kukuchi has been a stud for Houston. I still contend that the Astros paid too much for him, but that is in the past and it is nice to see him do well. In 5.2 innings pitched, Yusei struck out five hitters, walked zero, and allowed no homers. If not for some sloppy defense by Chas McCormick, he probably would have gotten out of the game without giving up a run.
With the team down 1-0 in the 3rd, Diaz responded with an RBI single.
The Astros had six hits the rest of the game, but only two would matter.
The Astros had the bases loaded with one out in the top of the eighth, but they could not capitalize. For a moment it looked like the Rays would make the Stros pay for it.
Presley allowed a one-out, bases-loaded jam of his own. However, he managed to hold the three-to-one lead, only giving up one run on a sacrifice ground out to first.
Josh Hader came in in the ninth and it wasn’t particularly interesting.
Final score: Astros 3, Rays 2.
Thoughts:
The defense made some good plays tonight. Even Pena’s throwing error was not that bad, as many shortstops would be unable to get to that ball in the first place.
Chas has not been good this year, but he has dealt with many injuries. He has had three solid seasons in a row, so be patient. This is why it is nice to have depth; Chas may be having a bad year, but at least Jake Meyers is picking up the slack.
The Astros are 1.5 games up! Since 2017, the team has always managed to put everything together by the end of the year. The Astros had some serious holes, but, for now, they are looking pretty good. Spencer (K)rrighetti is looking like a solid option at the bottom of the rotation and, even without Verlander, the team may have a good starting four in October.
What do y’all think? How are you feeling about this team? comment below!