The Astros crushed the Dodgers 18-1 on July 5, 2025, in a historic loss for L.A. Jose Altuve and Victor Caratini led a 10-run inning. Recap the rout.
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
Forget the fireworks, the real explosions on July 4th happened at Dodger Stadium. The Houston Astros didn't just beat the Los Angeles Dodgers; they dismantled them in an 18-1 shellacking that will be talked about for years. The win marked the single worst loss the Dodgers have ever suffered at their iconic ballpark, a statement victory fueled by a relentless offense and a vintage performance from Jose Altuve.
18-1: The final score in what became the Los Angeles Dodgers' worst-ever loss at Dodger Stadium.
The game was already in Houston's control, but the sixth inning was pure baseball mayhem. The Astros sent a parade of hitters to the plate, erupting for a jaw-dropping 10 runs. The inning was a microcosm of the night's dominance, punctuated by Jose Altuve's three-run blast and capped off by Victor Caratini's grand slam. Altuve finished the night with three hits, two home runs, four runs scored, and five RBIs, looking every bit the MVP candidate. Manager Joe Espada praised the team's 'relentless approach,' while his counterpart Dave Roberts simply said it was a game to 'flush as soon as possible.' For Astros fans, it's one to savor.
While the offense was grabbing headlines, the front office was busy shoring up the bullpen for the stretch run. On Saturday, the team announced the signing of veteran right-handed reliever Héctor Neris to a Major League contract. To make room, RHP Jason Alexander was optioned to Triple-A Sugar Land. This is a classic contender's move, adding a proven, high-leverage arm to a bullpen that will be critical down the stretch. It's a clear signal that the team is all-in on making a deep postseason push.
The good news just keeps rolling in. On the injury front, the updates are overwhelmingly positive. The most significant news is for Yordan Alvarez; a specialist visit revealed his hand fracture is a 'non-factor' and his lingering pain is just due to inflammation. This is a huge sigh of relief. Meanwhile, the pitching staff is getting closer to whole. Luis Garcia and Cristian Javier, both recovering from Tommy John surgery, are progressing well in their throwing programs, with Javier targeting a July return and Garcia potentially back by early August. The cavalry is on its way, and it couldn't come at a better time.
What a time to be an Astros fan. The team just delivered one of the most dominant wins in recent memory, the front office is actively improving the roster, and the injured superstars are getting closer to their return every day. With the offense clicking like this and reinforcements on the horizon, the second half of the season is shaping up to be an electrifying ride. Keep your eyes on this team; they're not just winning, they're making a statement.
