Astros Claim Triumph: Blanco’s Pitching and Dezenzo’s Home Run Lead to 5-2 Victory Over Guardians

Blanco’s Remarkable Performance

Ronel Blanco, the Houston Astros’ ace, showcased his exceptional talent by pitching five hitless innings in Friday night’s face-off against the Cleveland Guardians. His impressive performance, allowing only a single hit, helped the Astros secure a 5-2 victory in a potential playoff precursor. This victory adds to Blanco’s already impressive tally, remaining undefeated in his past nine starts. His combined efforts with three relievers resulted in a three-hitter, holding onto the win despite the Astros’ 13 strikeouts and leaving 12 men on base. Astros’ manager, Joe Espada had high praise for Blanco, “He’s arguably one of our top pitchers. He has played a pivotal role in our journey to this point.”

Blanco was succeeded by rookie Spencer Arrighetti, making his first-ever relief appearance post 28 starts.

Arrighetti’s New Role and Ejection

Arrighetti held firm for two innings but met a roadblock in the eighth when he loaded the bases. His frustration resulted in an ejection by home plate umpire Mark Wegner, triggered by Arrighetti’s explosive reaction of spiking the resin bag and a heated exchange. Despite this, Arrighetti found comfort in his new bullpen role, reminiscent of his college pitching days, and sees potential for improvement in his future endeavors.

Dezenzo’s Debut Home Run

The Astros’ rookie Zach Dezenzo, alongside Victor Caratini, contributed to the team’s victory with back-to-back home runs in the fifth inning. Dezenzo’s homer, following his recall from Triple-A Sugar Land, was a significant moment for him as a former Guardians fan from Ohio. His first home run at the Guardians’ home stadium was what he described as a “nostalgic” moment.

Despite the Guardians’ efforts, they were held to a single hit for eight innings, accumulating two runs in the ninth off Josh Hader. The Guardians still trail behind the New York Yankees for the top seed and home-field advantage throughout the playoffs.

Guardians’ Rookie Starter Struggles

Joey Cantillo, the Guardians’ rookie starter, allowed six hits in 3 2/3 innings. He reflected on his performance, acknowledging a lack of sharpness and difficulty maintaining control.

Player Updates

Astros’ LF Yordan Alvarez is making a swift recovery from a knee sprain, while the Guardians’ RHP Alex Cobb continues to make progress from a finger blister that has kept him out of action for a month.

The Astros, already crowned the AL West champions, are guaranteed the No. 3 seed in the playoffs, and are set to host a wild-card series next week. If they continue their successful streak, they’ll face the Guardians once again on October 5th in the first game of the ALDS.