The Astros are making a much-needed comeback after being swept by the Orioles. The Astros have a little winning streak going against the Marlins and look to complete the sweep Wednesday night as they continue their homestand.
It has been an up and down season for Houston, and they can't seem to get on an upswing. Things are looking up for the Astros, but the question remains: are things going to stay up?
The Astros were able to secure game two of the three-game series, so what went right for Houston Tuesday night?
Tatsuya Imai was the starting pitcher for Tuesday night's game. Imai has struggled with command and consistency, but last night was a different story.
Here is a look at his game stats, per MLB:
IP: 6.0, H: 4, R: 1, ER: 1, HR: 0, BB: 3, K: 8, Pitches: 96, Decision: W
A really solid outing. It was his best start at home in his Astros career. 6 innings, 1 run, 8 strikeouts. That is the Imai the Astros need. He had a three-pitch strikeout in the third and fourth innings. He gave them length and a strong performance. Not something the Astros have seen much of from Imai this season. Could Imai be turning a corner or is this another fluke?
Imai had a solid performance, but he didn't do it alone. The Astros were playing good fundamental baseball offensively.
Peña launched one and it bounced off the wall. But after Joe Espada came out of the dugout so they could review the play, and sure enough it hit the yellow line and was a home run. Peña stepping up to the plate and performing well back to back nights. Another leadoff home run for Peña. Monday night a grand slam and Tuesday night a leadoff homer. Peña has been looking good lately.
Lucas Spence had a big moment Tuesday night. He had his first big-league RBI and double. A great moment for the young player.
Yordan Alvarez didn't realize the pitch got away, but once he saw it he started hustling to first base and made it. That hustle paid off since Isaac Paredes followed up with a three-run homer.
Josh Hader closed the game out once again. The Astros are lucky to have him back. One more game to complete the sweep. Can the Astros get it done?
