Astros top Rockies 6-5 on July 2, 2025, as Victor Caratini's grand slam provides the offense and Josh Hader sets a new club record with his 24th save.
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
Another night, another nail-biter, and another Astros win. In the thin air of Coors Field, Houston showed its mettle, holding on for a 6-5 victory over the Rockies. The game had it all: a massive power surge courtesy of Victor Caratini and a history-making moment from closer Josh Hader, who slammed the door to secure the win and a new club record.
Josh Hader is a perfect 24-for-24 in save opportunities, a new club record for the longest perfect save streak to start a season.
The game's defining blow came in the third inning. With the bases loaded, Victor Caratini stepped up and launched his third career grand slam, turning a 1-1 tie into a commanding 6-1 lead. That blast proved to be just enough cushion. The offense wasn't a one-man show, though. Christian Walker continued his hot hitting with a 3-for-4 night, and it was Jake Meyers' RBI fielder’s choice earlier in the inning that put the Astros ahead for good. The only quiet bat was, ironically, the one everyone was watching. Jose Altuve went 0-for-4, meaning the chase to tie Jeff Bagwell for second on the franchise's all-time hits list will have to wait at least one more game.
When the Rockies chipped away and made it a one-run game, the Astros' bullpen did what it does best: dominate. After Bennett Sousa picked up his second win of the year with a clean sixth inning, the back-end duo was simply electric. Bryan Abreu took the mound in the eighth and was breathtaking, striking out the side with overpowering stuff. That set the stage for Josh Hader, who calmly recorded his 24th save in as many chances. The save wasn't just another notch on the belt; it set a new Astros club record for the most consecutive saves to begin a season. In a league of elite closers, Hader is proving to be in a class of his own.
Hader's perfection is just one example of the pitching excellence fueling this team. As the All-Star Game approaches, it's clear the American League roster will have a heavy Houston flavor. Hunter Brown (leading AL starters with a 1.74 ERA), Framber Valdez (leading MLB in complete games), and Hader are all considered locks to represent the Astros. Their dominance is the primary reason the Astros sit second in the AL standings despite a rash of injuries. To bolster depth, the team also recalled outfielder Shay Whitcomb from Triple-A Sugar Land, ensuring all hands are on deck as this hot streak continues.
Winning seven of their last eight and 15 of their last 19, the Astros are firing on all cylinders. They'll look to secure another series win against the Rockies tomorrow, with all eyes once again on Jose Altuve every time he steps to the plate. With record-setting closers, All-Star-worthy starters, and timely hitting, this team is building serious momentum as we head deeper into July.
