Alex Bregman’s three-run homer helped the Houston Astros narrowly defeat the Minnesota Twins 13-12 on Friday, despite nearly squandering an eight-run lead in the ninth inning.
Jeremy Peña contributed with three hits, three runs scored, and three RBIs, aiding the Astros in securing their 13th win in five games. Since June 1, they boast the best record in Major League Baseball at 21-9.
All-Star second baseman Jose Altuve left the game in the eighth inning after being hit on the left wrist by a pitch. X-rays revealed no serious injury, but he is considered day-to-day with a bruised wrist.
In the ninth inning, the Twins staged a dramatic comeback, scoring seven runs after trailing 13-5 following Houston’s three-run addition. Josh Hader entered the game with two outs and allowed a grand slam to Carlos Correa before striking out Manuel Margot to secure his 15th save of the season.
Jose Miranda, the Twins’ designated hitter, had a perfect 4-for-4 game, setting a team record with 10 consecutive hits. This streak surpasses previous records set by Tony Oliva in 1967, Mickey Hatcher in 1985, and Todd Walker in 1998. However, Miranda was replaced as a pinch hitter in the ninth inning to preserve his streak.
Astros starter Shawn Dubin pitched 2 2/3 innings, allowing three earned runs. This marked Dubin’s second start after making 14 relief appearances, as the Astros look to integrate him into their starting rotation due to injuries affecting five starting pitchers currently on the injured lis
Houston utilized six relievers to complete the game, with Bryan King securing his first career win (1-0). On the Twins’ side, Pablo López (8-7) surrendered six earned runs over five-plus innings, pushing his ERA to 5.1
In the second inning, Houston scored three runs on four singles, but Minnesota responded swiftly with two runs and threatened to add more runs before Dubin walked Willi Castro with two outs, bringing the score to 3-2.
