Astros: a walk off rooted in vengeance for Robel Garcia

Robel Garcia got his revenge against the Los Angeles Angels.

The Houston Astros‘ bats were ice cold until a two-run home run from Yuli Gurriel tied the game late against the Los Angeles Angels. As the game went into extra innings, a Robel Garcia pinch hit single gave the Astros their first walk off win of 2021.

As Houston claimed Garcia off waivers in spring training, the somewhat minor league journeyman has been the second utility player for the Astros. While expected to be a starting infielder at the AAA level, the switch-hitter made the major league roster and has two hits in four at bats this year.

Zack Greinke was also on his own level of dominance, as he wasn’t getting much run support like his last outing in Seattle. While going seven innings, the right-hander surrendered two runs on 10 hits with six strikeouts. Don’t look heavily into the amount of hits due to the fact that Greinke has been known for his outs by soft contact, as they turned a season high three double plays.

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Jose Altuve was cleared to work out with the Astros as well on Friday. While recovering from being on the COVID-19 injured list, he will still require a few more days until he is ready to come back, but the surprise of him working out at Minute Maid Park, brought joy to Carlos Correa.

Kent Emanuel also made his way to the 26-man roster for the first time in career, after serving his suspension for PEDs. The left-hander replaced Nivaldo Rodriguez on the roster and decided to wear number 0, because it reflects the numbers of games he should’ve been suspended.

The Astros are back on the field on Saturday at 3:10 p.m. with Jake Odorizzi on the bump facing right-hander Griffin Canning. While on a two-game winning streak, Houston is now one game below .500.