Yordan Alvarez and Kyle Tucker hit back-to-back home runs and each had four hits in the Houston Astros’ 10-4 victory over the Los Angeles Angels on Saturday night.
Victor Caratini hit an early three-run homer to support Astros starter Ronel Blanco (12-6). Houston set a season high with 20 hits and reduced its magic number to three for winning the AL West title.
Alvarez and Tucker both connected off reliever Ryan Miller within three pitches, extending the lead to 10-2 in the seventh inning. This was the seventh time the team has hit back-to-back home runs this season.
“He didn’t even let me enjoy the homer because as I was getting to the dugout he was already hitting his,” Alvarez said through an interpreter.
Tucker had his second straight game with four hits. Alvarez came into the game having not gotten a hit in his previous 12 at-bats.
In the first inning, Alvarez and Tucker hit consecutive doubles to give the Astros a 1-0 lead. The Angels tied the game in the second when Mickey Moniak scored on Logan O’Hoppe’s double after a throwing error by left fielder Mauricio Dubón.
Houston regained the lead in the second when Jose Altuve singled home Caratini with the bases loaded. Jake Meyers then scored when Alvarez grounded into a double play.
Houston took control of the game with a four-run third inning, which included Caratini’s three-run homer. Caratini also walked, singled, and scored two runs.
Meyers went 2 for 3 with a double, two walks, a stolen base, and a run.
Blanco allowed two runs and seven hits over six innings while striking out nine. His 2.88 ERA is the third-best in the American League.
“I tip my hat to him,” Astros manager Joe Espada said. “From day one, that no-hitter he threw (in his first start), he’s been embracing that role. He’s been grinding it out. We gave him that little breather. His stuff looks good. He’s been a workhorse for us.”
