Astros Extend Division Lead
Astros Defeat Diamondbacks 3-1 to Extend Their American League West Lead
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Key Points
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Houston’s three-run third inning began with Yainer Diaz’s leadoff homer, followed by singles from Jeremy Peña and Yordan Alvarez, an RBI double by Isaac Paredes and a sacrifice fly by Jose Altuve.
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Astros reliever Bennett Sousa escaped a bases-loaded jam in the sixth inning by inducing an inning-ending double play from Nolan Arenado.
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Arizona starter Merrill Kelly was charged with three runs on seven hits and struck out four over six innings, after throwing seven scoreless innings in his previous start against San Francisco.
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The victory was Houston’s fifth in its last six games, while Arizona suffered its fourth loss in five games.
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The teams were scheduled to continue the series Saturday with Arizona’s Brandon Pfaadt, who was 7-1 with a 2.22 ERA over his previous 12 starts, facing Houston rookie Ethan Pecko, coming off his first major-league win.
The Houston Astros defeated the Arizona Diamondbacks 3-1 on Friday, tightening their grip on the American League West. Yainer Diaz's solo homer sparked a three-run third inning that proved decisive, while starter Cristian Javier struck out eight over five innings in his first win since July.
Diaz Leads Offensive Burst in Third Inning
Houston's breakthrough came early and decisively. Diaz led off the third with a solo shot, then Jeremy Peña and Yordan Alvarez followed with singles. Isaac Paredes drove in a run with a double, and Jose Altuve added a sacrifice fly to cap the scoring.
Astros Pitching Limits Arizona to Just Four Hits
Javier's five innings of one-run ball set the tone for Houston's defense. Four relievers combined to hold Arizona to two additional hits. Josh Hader struck out the side in the ninth for his 23rd save of the season and the 250th of his career.
Bennett Sousa pitched out of trouble in the sixth inning, inducing a double play from Nolan Arenado with the bases loaded to escape the jam unscathed.
Diamondbacks' Struggles Continue in Tight Race
Arizona's offense never found its rhythm. Starter Merrill Kelly allowed three runs on seven hits and struck out four over six innings, a sharp drop from his previous outing when he threw seven scoreless innings against San Francisco.
The loss was Arizona's fourth in five games. The Diamondbacks slipped into a tie for the National League's final wild-card spot as Houston improved to 73-69.
Houston Riding Strong Defensive Stretch
The Astros have limited opponents to three runs or fewer in seven of their last nine games. Friday's victory was Houston's fifth in its last six contests, showcasing a team playing with confidence down the stretch.
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