You just knew it was only a matter of time before the Houston Astros that we’ve come to know and love (or hate) made their presence felt in the ALCS.
After last night’s Game 4 victory that even the series up 2-2, the pendulum has completely swung in their favor against the (much) less experienced Rangers.
The Astros bats, which had been so silent in the first two games of the series, exploded in an enormous way.
The Rangers have given up 402 runs at Globe Life Park in 84 games in 2023.
The Astros have scored 81 of those (20.1%)
— The Real J Sanders (@teslabusdriver) October 20, 2023
Houston took an early 3-0 lead before you could blink.
Texas battled back and tied the game … However, as the night went on, it became obvious that the Astros weren’t going to be denied the series-equalizing win.
Texas manager Bruce Bochy acknowledged the challenge posed by the stacked Astros lineup.
“We’re playing a good team. Nobody thought it was going to be easy,” Bochy admitted. “(The Astros) have played very well in this ballpark. We need to change that … We know it.”
Deep in the heart of South Oklahoma.
— J (@Dafedm1) October 20, 2023
Astros star Jose Altuve was spectacular in the win.
He had three hits and three runs scored in what was his 100th career playoff game.
Yordan Alvarez continued his impressive postseason tear, driving in three runs to bring his total playoff RBI count to 13.
Chas McCormick was also vital in the win, adding a crucial two-run homer.
And that's a 2-run Chas Chomp in Arlington for you haters!#Astros #Ready2Reign pic.twitter.com/QGKcvS5Umo
— Keith T. (@Da_Taylormaniac) October 20, 2023
“That means a lot, obviously. It makes it even more special because we won,” Altuve said of his 100th playoff game performance.
“Nothing’s done yet, but to be able to get the opportunity to come back and tie the series … It’s really important for us.”
Not many people get to see a player like Altuve come up. I hope we keep him in Houston like the dodgers have done with Kershaw. He’s a legendary player
— Altuve simp (@LASTrosfanguy) October 20, 2023
The Astros capitalized on the crucial moments, with Abreu’s timely homer in the fourth inning firmly solidifying their lead at 7-3.
Ryne Stanek’s effective one-pitch performance earned him the win.
— Coach Tz (@_coachTz) October 20, 2023
Game 5 is tonight at 5:07pm EST and it promises to be epic.
The Rangers will send the reliable Jordan Montgomery to the mound to try and counter three-time Cy Young winner Justin Verlander who will be making his 21st career playoff start for Houston.
So easy!
— Quantonious ⭕️ (@TheQuantBull) October 20, 2023
Needless to say, tonight’s game is absolutely crucial – and may very well decide who the ultimate winner of the series will be.
What’s your prediction???
Cheating Astros #TexasRangers #cheating pic.twitter.com/teJSDKPOaK
— Victoria Ramos (@Victori33411012) October 20, 2023