Rookie shortstop Jeremy Pena drove in two key runs and a veteran AC. Justin Verlander The Houston Astros lost Game 5 of the World Series, 3-2 over the Philadelphia Phillies in five innings. Verlander’s first career World Series victory came with the Astros on the cusp of this core’s second championship and first since a sign-stealing scandal.
After one night Christian Xavier And the company threw the no-hitter, Verlander … didn’t. He gave up a home run Phyllis Front killer Kyle Schwarber, then had to navigate trouble in the second and third innings. Sometimes it looks like a Cy Young winner won’t come out on top. But he got out of every jam and went five innings before making it to the Astros bullpen.
Heading into the postseason, Verlander was 0-6 with a 6.07 ERA in eight World Series starts. He got a no-decision after blowing a five-run lead early in Game 1 of this series.
Astros defense saves the day
Having been dominant throughout the series, Houston’s relievers will need impressive defensive help this time around.
Getting into action when done on a first basis Yuli Gurriel The Astros left because of the injury Trey Mancini He found himself in a big time.
With the Phillies rallying in the eighth, a blast off the bat of Kyle Schwarber would have scored the lead from third and possibly the first run. In the ninth inning, center field and a native of Philadelphia Chas McCormick He made an amazing catch, jumping into the fence to take extra bases JT Realmuto.
In the end, Dusty Baker got five outs Ryan Pressly.
Altuve, Pena lifts Astros lineup
The Astros’ top two hitters carried the brunt. Continuing his good first playoff run, Pena singled in Houston’s first run in the first, then homered in the fourth. Jose Altuve spent the night setting the table for him. After a good October slump, Altuve gave up two hits, walked and scored two runs.
The Astros return to Houston with a championship on the table. Friday will be an off day — MLB put it on the schedule after Game 3 was rained out — and Game 6 will be Saturday night. Framber Valdez When the Phillies give the ball away, he goes for the trophy Zack Wheeler.
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