Astros Dominate Twins with Four Power Homers

The Houston Astros defeated the Minnesota Twins 9-1 in Game 3 of the A.L. Division Series, taking a 2-1 lead. José Abreu hit two home runs for Houston.

The Houston Astros continued their dominant performance in the postseason with a 9-1 victory over the Minnesota Twins in Game 3 of the ALDS. Late-afternoon shadows made it challenging for the players to see the ball, but that didn't stop the Astros from putting on an offensive showcase.

Houston got off to a strong start, scoring four runs in the first inning against Twins pitcher Sonny Gray. José Abreu played a significant role in the Astros' success, hitting a three-run homer in the first inning and adding a two-run shot in the ninth. Yordan Alvarez also contributed with his fourth home run in three games, while Alex Bregman had a homer and an RBI single.

Astros starter Cristian Javier was outstanding on the mound, recording nine strikeouts in five scoreless innings. He showed composure and confidence, despite having a higher ERA this season. The Astros have a knack for picking each other up and have developed a winning culture since their World Series victory in 2017.

The Twins had the advantage of playing at home, with a sold-out crowd cheering them on. However, they struggled to find their rhythm against the Astros' pitching. They left nine men on base and went 1-for-9 with runners in scoring position. Gray, who had an impressive season with the Twins, gave up two home runs in the game, something he hadn't done in two seasons.

The Astros now hold a 2-1 lead in the series and are just one win away from advancing to their seventh consecutive ALCS. Game 4 will take place today at Target Field, and if necessary, Game 5 will be held in Houston on Friday.

José Abreu, who had a lower batting average this season, expressed his satisfaction with joining the Astros and competing in high-stakes games. The Astros have built a confident team that doesn't showboat but focuses on playing their best baseball.

The Twins recognized the importance of starting strong in a game like this, but they couldn't match the Astros' early offensive explosion. Manager Rocco Baldelli acknowledged that the team that took an early lead would have the upper hand in the game.

The Astros will send José Urquidy to the mound for Game 4, while the Twins will start Joe Ryan, who will be making his first career postseason start. Urquidy has had success against the Twins in the past, and Ryan will need to find a way to contain the Astros' potent lineup.

Yordan Alvarez has been a standout performer for the Astros in this series, with six hits and six RBI. His four home runs in the first three games tie him with Juan Gonzalez and Bob Robertson for the most in a single postseason. José Altuve praised Alvarez as the best hitter in baseball and hopes he continues his impressive form.

The Astros are in a strong position to advance to the next round, but the Twins will be looking to force a Game 5 and keep their postseason hopes alive. The outcome of Game 4 will be crucial in determining which team moves on in the playoffs.