Last night, the Houston Astros topped the L.A. Dodgers 7-6 in game two of the World Series.
The Dodgers maintained an early lead until an Astros homer in the ninth took the game to extra innings. From there, the game lasted not one, but two more innings. Both teams were able to score two runs in the tenth inning. But, at the bottom of the eleventh, the Dodgers fell one run short and lost.
Now, each team has a win under their belt, guaranteeing at least a game five.
Houston Astros
The Houston Astros have had an interesting post-season run. In the American League Divisional Series, they topped the Boston Red Sox 3-1. In the Championship Series, the New York Yankees took them to seven games.
Now, the Astros have their first World Series win in franchise history. Usually, that kind of back-and-forth does not bode well. However, something about the Astros gives its way to last-second momentum.
Yes, the Astros have great batters in Jose Altuve and Carlos Correa. In fact, the duo posted back-to-back homers in the tenth inning to put the Astros up.
But, as baseball goes, it all comes down to the pitcher. Last night, Houston started Justin Verlander. Verlander has consistently shown resilience and heart throughout the post-season and the Astros have won every game he started. Last night was no exception.
The Houston Astros headed into the eleventh with a special message from their star pitcher. He yelled, “Stay positive! Remember how good you are,” and remember they did. After the game, Verlander had his own thoughts on the game’s lasting impact. This thrilling game could have gone either way, but in the end, it was Houston’s.
The dynamic duo of Altuve and Correa get it done! #WorldSeries pic.twitter.com/LV96YHah62
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) October 26, 2017
Los Angeles Dodgers
On the other hand, the Dodgers’ post-season has been a breeze. They swept the National League Divisional Series and almost swept the Championship Series.
Once the World Series kicked off, L.A. walked away with the first win.
Despite the loss, the Dodgers played just as hard throughout game two. They held a lead for most of the game and carried themselves with swagger. Then, two unexpected turns deflated the Dodgers.
Pitcher Kenley Jansen has a record of 41-for-42 in save opportunities in 2017. In October alone, Jansen converted all 12 of the save chances handed to him. With Jansen on the mound in the eighth, it looked like a sealed Dodgers win. He allowed a run in the eighth, but L.A. was still leading. Then, he allowed one in the ninth.
The Dodgers were able to score three runs in the last two innings. But, while the Astros were fired up, the Dodgers looked detached. Houston’s late momentum proved to be enough for an Astro win.
What’s Next?
The Houston Astros and L.A. Dodgers do not have a game tonight. This resting period will give both teams a chance to reset. However, on Friday, fans will find out how the teams will use game three to their advantage. Will the Astros find the balance between a confident win, while still realizing their underdog status? Or will the angry Dodgers come back swinging?
Find out tomorrow at 8 PM on FOX.