Turning Point
The game’s decisive moment arrived in the eighth inning when Taylor Ward launched a 399-foot home run to left center. The blast gave the Baltimore Orioles a 3-2 lead that would hold until the final out. Ward’s homer also drove in Rutschman, extending the visitors' advantage after the Astros had tied the contest earlier in the afternoon.
Early Scoring
Baltimore established the first run in the top of the first inning. Alvarez doubled to left field, allowing Peña to score from first base. The Orioles held a 1-0 lead until the third inning, when a controversial play at home plate tied the game.
Alonso walked, advancing Mayo to second and Rutschman to third. When Peña crossed the plate, the Houston Astros challenged the call. The challenge was unsuccessful, and the umpires’ original decision stood, tying the score at 1-1.
Astros Tie and Take Lead
The momentum shifted quickly in the bottom of the third. Paredes hit a sacrifice fly to right field, allowing Peña to score and give Houston a 2-1 advantage. The Astros’ pitching staff maintained control for the next four innings.
Peter Lambert pitched six innings for Houston, allowing one earned run on three hits while striking out ten batters. Steven Okert added a scoreless eighth inning with two strikeouts, preserving the lead.
