The resilient Astros beat the A's 3-2 on June 17 despite a Lance McCullers Jr. injury, thanks to a Jeremy Peña HR and a gem from rookie Ryan Gusto. Read how.
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
Just when you think the injury bug can't possibly bite any harder, the Houston Astros find another way to win. On a night that began with news of another key pitcher heading to the injured list, the 'Stros showcased their signature resilience, grinding out a 3-2 victory over the Oakland Athletics to extend their winning streak to a season-high six games. It wasn't flashy, but it was a perfect example of the fight this team has.
These guys don’t quit. They fight ‘til the end. I’m not surprised by their fight, but when you see it and you feel the energy in that dugout, it’s incredible.
The hero of the night was undoubtedly Jeremy Peña, who broke a tense deadlock with a towering two-run home run that proved to be the difference-maker. But the win wouldn't have been possible without a clutch performance from an unexpected source. Rookie Ryan Gusto, thrust into the starting role at the last minute, delivered a gem. He kept the A's lineup off-balance, giving the Astros a chance to win before handing the ball over to a bullpen that slammed the door shut. It was a classic team win, with contributions from every corner of the roster.
The pre-game news was a gut punch for Astros fans: veteran starter Lance McCullers Jr. was placed on the 15-day injured list with a right foot sprain. It's another tough break for McCullers and for a pitching staff already missing Cristian Javier and Luis Garcia. With Yordan Alvarez also sidelined, the Astros are navigating a minefield of injuries. To fill the immediate roster spot, the team called up right-hander Jason Alexander from Triple-A Sugar Land, a necessary move to bolster the bullpen depth for the grueling stretch ahead.
Despite the constant roster shuffling, the team's spirit remains unbreakable. Manager Joe Espada couldn't hide his pride post-game, praising the team's relentless energy and fight. This six-game winning streak, during which they've outscored opponents significantly, isn't a fluke. It's a testament to the culture in the clubhouse, where rookies and role players are stepping up to fill massive shoes. The reliance on the farm system, highlighted by the call-ups of Gusto and Alexander, shows that the Astros' organizational depth is once again proving to be its greatest asset.
With a 42-30 record and a firm grip on the AL West lead, the Astros have built a crucial cushion. But the challenges aren't going away. They'll need to continue this gritty, team-first baseball to navigate the rest of this series in Oakland and the weeks ahead. If this winning streak has taught us anything, it's to never, ever count out the Houston Astros, no matter who is on the field.
