Deciding Blow in the Ninth
The Houston Astros secured a 2-1 victory over the Philadelphia Phillies on Thursday, September 10, at Citizens Bank Park. The game was decided in the final frame when Cam Smith hit a solo home run to center field. The blast carried 421 feet and came off the pitching of Jhoan Duran.
This single run gave the away team the lead and the win, as the scoring sequence ended with the final count at 2-1 in favor of Houston.
Early and Mid-Inning Action
The Astros took an early lead in the second inning. Trammell hit a double to right field, allowing Walker to score from first base. That play made the score 1-0.
The Phillies answered in the fifth inning to tie the game. Stott grounded into a fielder's choice at shortstop. This defensive play allowed Arraez to score while Bohm was thrown out at third base.
The run brought the score to 1-1, setting the stage for the ninth-inning drama.
Pitching Performance
Cristian Javier started for the Astros, pitching six innings. He allowed three hits and one earned run while walking one batter and striking out five. Bennett Sousa pitched one scoreless inning, allowing no hits, no walks, and recording no strikeouts.
Bryan Abreu earned the win, pitching one scoreless inning with no hits, no walks, and three strikeouts. Josh Hader recorded the save, pitching one scoreless inning with no hits, no walks, and one strikeout.
For the Phillies, Zack Wheeler started, pitching seven innings. He allowed five hits and one earned run, walked two batters, and struck out nine. Jose Alvarado pitched one inning, allowing two hits and one walk while recording no strikeouts. Jhoan Duran took the loss, pitching one inning, allowing one hit and one earned run, and striking out one batter. The final attendance was 37,100.
Final Records
The win improves the Houston Astros' record to 75-72 for the season. The Philadelphia Phillies fall to 82-65 after the loss. Both teams continue their schedules following this contest at Citizens Bank Park.
Sources
https://www.espn.com/mlb/game/_/gameId/401816884
