The Houston Astros overcame a 10-game deficit to tie for first place in the AL West in less than a month. Hunter Brown went six innings, giving up four hits while persevering through some difficult situations. The key to their 3-0 victory over the Seattle Mariners on Friday night was Yainer Diaz’s two-run single.
Joe Espada, the manager of Houston, took satisfaction in his team’s tenacity, emphasizing their unwavering work ethic and faith in the face of early season setbacks.
The Astros had a 7-under.500 record on June 18, but they have drastically improved, going 18-6 in their last 24 games. They caught up in the standings by taking advantage of a pivotal inning against Luis Castillo of Seattle.
The Mariners, who had a 10-game lead at one point, have since slumped, going 8-16.
They have scored three runs or fewer in fifteen of their previous twenty-four games, thus their offensive problems persisted against Houston.
Brown produced significant outs despite his early difficulties, including a bases-loaded escape in the third inning. The offensive difficulties were acknowledged by Seattle manager Scott Servais, who emphasized the team’s efforts to find answers.
Brown pitched six innings in all, striking out five and walking three. Josh Hader recorded his 19th save in the ninth inning, while relief relievers Bryan Abreu and Ryan Pressly kept the Mariners scoreless in the seventh and eighth innings.
