Imai Dominates on the Mound
Tatsuya Imai delivered a commanding performance for the Houston Astros, striking out eight batters while limiting Miami’s offense to just one earned run over six innings. The right-hander earned the win, improving his record to 6-4. Imai allowed four hits and walked three batters, navigating through the middle innings with precision before handing the ball to the bullpen.
The Astros’ relievers closed out the final three innings without allowing another run. AJ Blubaugh pitched one scoreless inning, striking out three batters in his appearance. Bennett Sousa followed with a perfect frame, earning his first hold of the season. Josh Hader secured the save by retiring the side in order in the ninth, recording his 11th save of the year.
Early Scoring and Home Run Barrage
Houston took the lead in the first inning when Peña homered to left center, a 405-foot shot that initially stood but was overturned upon umpire review. The Marlins responded in the second inning when Spence doubled to right field, driving in Wade Jr. to tie the game at 1-1.
The Astros seized control in the fifth inning. Stowers doubled to center, scoring Lopez to put Houston ahead 2-1. The momentum shifted dramatically moments later when Paredes launched a 388-foot home run to left field. The blast cleared the bases, scoring both Peña and Alvarez in a three-run swing that extended the Astros’ lead to 5-1.
