The Second-Inning Surge
The game’s decisive moment arrived in the second inning when Houston Astros’ Peña launched a four-run home run to right field, measuring 340 feet. The blast turned a 2-1 deficit into a 2-5 lead for the home team. Prior to that swing, the Marlins had taken a 2-0 advantage on a two-run homer by Mack to right field in the same inning.
Alvarez added to Houston’s momentum shortly after by hitting a solo home run to right center, extending the lead to 2-6.
Miami managed to cut the margin in the fourth inning when Hicks hit a two-run home run to right field, bringing the score to 4-6. However, Alvarez responded in the fifth with another home run to right center, restoring the four-run gap at 4-7.
The Astros’ offense remained productive in the seventh inning when Altuve singled to center, allowing Paredes to score and making it 4-8.
Pitching Performance
Miami’s starting pitcher Janson Junk took the loss after pitching 4.0 innings. He allowed five hits and six earned runs while striking out three batters. Lake Bachar pitched 1.0 inning, giving up one hit and one earned run. Dax Fulton completed the Marlins’ pitching effort with 3.0 innings, yielding one earned run and striking out four.
