GEORGE SPRINGER

Randy Arozarena hit his 20th homer and drove in six runs as the Tampa Bay Rays beat Toronto 10-6, tying the Blue Jays at the top of the AL wild-card standings.

Wander Franco had three RBIs, Jonathan Aranda homered and the Tampa Bay Rays beat the Toronto Blue Jays 10-5 in the opener of a big four-game series between playoff contenders.

Andrew Benintendi hit a tiebreaking, two-run homer in the seventh inning and the New York Yankees got a win they desperately needed, beating the Toronto Blue Jays 4-2 to avoid a four-game sweep.

Yankees ace Gerrit Cole twice banged on the dugout roof, shouting in frustration and getting booed as scuffling New York lost for the 15th time in 19 games, beaten by the Toronto Blue Jays 5-2.

Kevin Gausman tossed seven sharp innings and the Toronto Blue Jays became the latest team to shut out the New York Yankees, beating the AL East leaders 4-0.

George Springer went 5-for-5, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. hit a three-run homer to cap a five-run second inning, and the Toronto Blue Jays routed the slumping New York Yankees 9-2.

The Toronto Blue Jays placed All-Star outfielder George Springer on the 10-day injured list with inflammation in his right elbow.

Raimel Tapia had three hits and drove in four runs, giving him 10 RBIs for the series, and Vladimir Guerrero had four hits for the Toronto Blue Jays as they pounded the bumbling Boston Red Sox 8-4 to complete a three-game sweep.

Raimel Tapia hit an inside-the-park grand slam after a misplay by Boston center fielder Jarren Duran and the Toronto Blue Jays set a franchise record for runs in a game, rolling past the Red Sox 28-5.

Los Angeles Angels outfielder Mike Trout will miss the All-Star Game because of back spasms, joining Bryce Harper on the sidelines and depriving the showcase of two of baseball’s best-known players.

Texas Rangers shortstop Corey Seager has replaced Toronto outfielder George Springer on the American League roster for next week’s All-Star Game.

Toronto first baseman Vladimir Guerrero Jr. had a throw bust through the webbing of his glove and the Seattle Mariners took advantage for their eighth straight win, beating the Blue Jays 6-5 on two home runs by Carlos Santana.

Los Angeles Angels sensation Shohei Ohtani repeated as a two-way All-Star when he was picked for the AL pitching staff, two days after he was elected to start at designated hitter.

Mike Trout and Shohei Ohtani of the Los Angeles Angels were elected Friday to start in the July 19 All-Star Game along with outfielders Mookie Betts and Trea Turner of the host Dodgers.

Yankees outfielder Aaron Judge and Atlanta Braves outfielder Ronald Acuña Jr. were elected Thursday to start in the July 20 All-Star Game at Dodger Stadium.

Mariners manager Scott Servais was ejected for his role in a benches-clearing scuffle in the ninth inning of Seattle’s 7-4 win over the Houston Astros, a game in which Cal Raleigh had a career-high four RBIs and Julio Rodriguez hit a late two-run shot.

Angels star Mike Trout is likely to have a big rooting section at Citizens Bank Park all weekend for a series against the Phillies.

Jameson Taillon took a perfect game into the eighth inning, then fell behind before the New York Yankees rallied past the Los Angeles Angels 2-1 on a clutch swing by pinch-hitter Anthony Rizzo.

Yordan Álvarez hit a pair of no-doubt homers, Framber Valdez pitched a two-hitter for a rare complete game and the Houston Astros beat the Oakland Athletics 5-1.

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. homered off Shohei Ohtani for the first time, and George Springer hit a leadoff home run in the Toronto Blue Jays’ 6-3 victory over the Los Angeles Angels.

Gleyber Torres drove in all New York’s runs with a go-ahead, three-run homer off José Berríos in the fourth inning and a two-run single, leading the surging Yankees over the Toronto Blue Jays 5-3 for their 15th win in 17 games.

Aaron Judge hit a mammoth three-run drive in the ninth inning for his first walk-off home run in the major leagues to give the New York Yankees a 6-5 comeback victory over the Toronto Blue Jays.

Gleyber Torres homered early, then hit a go-ahead single in the ninth inning as the New York Yankees won their 10th straight game, beating the Toronto Blue Jays 3-2.

Yankees slugger Aaron Judge has hit five home runs in his last five games, part of a surge that’s helped New York win nine in a row.

Santiago Espinal drove in the go-ahead run with an RBI single in the seventh inning, Bo Bichette added a two-run home run, and the Toronto Blue Jays beat the Houston Astros 3-2.

George Springer homered twice against his former team, leading José Berríos and the Toronto Blue Jays over Houston 2-1 and snapping the Astros’ season-long winning streak at four.

George Springer hit a leadoff homer in the first game against his former team, and Santiago Espinal homered for the second straight game to lift the Toronto Blue Jays to a 3-2 win over the Houston Astros.

Matt Chapman doubled home Vladimir Guerrero Jr. with two outs in the ninth inning and the Toronto Blue Jays beat the Houston Astros 4-3 for their third straight win.

Former Houston Astros star George Springer is back in town. However, he won't be part of the Blue Jays' Friday starting lineup against his former teammates.

Kevin Gausman took a shutout into the ninth inning and Jordan Romano escaped with a save as the Toronto Blue Jays beat the Boston Red Sox 3-2.

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. shook off a bloody gash on his right ring finger to hit three home runs against the rival Yankees, including two off ace Gerrit Cole, and the Toronto Blue Jays beat New York 6-4.

Atlanta’s 7-0 win over Houston in Game 6 to win the World Series could mark the end of an era for the Astros.

Atlanta’s 7-0 victory over Houston in Game 6 to win the World Series could mark the end of an era for the Astros.

The pairings for the baseball playoffs are all set.

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Whatever the reason you’re here, whether you’re honest-to-goodness house hunting, you’re a die-hard Astros fanatic, you’re searching for images to tack to your dream house vision board, or you just need something to gawk at to pass the time cooped up indoors, enjoy a virtual tour of this Houston-area home.

Bo Bichette thumped a leadoff homer in the first inning and singled in the tiebreaking run in the seventh, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. hit his 42nd homer, and the Toronto Blue Jays held off the skidding New York Yankees 6-4 for their eighth straight win.

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. hit his 41st home run and the streaking Toronto Blue Jays knocked the slumping Yankees out of the AL’s top wild-card spot, beating New York 6-3.

Rays rookie Wander Franco has reached base safely in 36 straight games.

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. hit his 40th homer, Marcus Semien went deep twice and the Toronto Blue Jays beat the New York Yankees 8-0 for their fifth straight win.

The Toronto Blue Jays have won four in a row entering their big series this week in New York against the Yankees.

Shohei Ohtani pitched six innings of three-hit ball to win his third consecutive start, and he also doubled and scored an early run in the Los Angeles Angels’ 6-3 victory over the Toronto Blue Jays.

Shohei Ohtani hit his major league-leading 38th home run this season, but the Toronto Blue Jays hit it out of the park four times, including two from George Springer and a grand slam by Teoscar Hernandez, to defeat the Los Angeles Angels 10-2.

Max Scherzer makes his second start for the Los Angeles Dodgers when they visit the red-hot Philadelphia Phillies in a potential playoff preview Tuesday night.

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The San Diego Padres and Washington will resume their game after it was suspended because of a shooting outside Nationals Park.

Two-way star Shohei Ohtani is back on the mound, taking on Kevin Gausman and the Giants at Angel Stadium.

Three of baseball’s best pitchers are hurting.

Reigning AL Cy Young Award winner Shane Bieber won’t throw for at least two weeks because of a right shoulder strain, an injury that will further test Cleveland’s pitching depth.

Jose Altuve led off the game with a home run, rookie Luis Garcia earned his fifth straight win and the Houston Astros beat Toronto 6-3, finishing the Blue Jays’ first homestand of the season in Buffalo.

^ Keep Houston Press Free Support Us LocalCommunityJournalismI Support Support the independent voice of Houston and help keep the future of Houston Press free. Lance McCullers' inking a five-year contract extension on Wednesday finally gave us a bit of good news, and made us feel a little better about our city. Now, let's hope that, since McCullers' deal is done....Hopefully, Carlos Correa is nextReportedly, the two sides are talking. Also, like McCullers, Correa has expressed a sincere desire to remain an Astros for his career. Also, like McCullers, Correa has spent large chunks of his career, thus far, on the injured list with various maladies.

^ Keep Houston Press Free Support Us LocalCommunityJournalismI Support Support the independent voice of Houston and help keep the future of Houston Press free. Support UsThe days of 100-win seasons are likely over for this window of Houston Astros baseball. With Dallas Keuchel and Justin Verlander in 2017; Verlander and Gerrit Cole in 2018; Verlander, Cole and Zack Greinke in 2019. They will likely need 13 to 17 wins out of each of these guys to contend in 2021. Pressly enters 2021 as the closer, once again, but the support from some of the young arms is now experienced support.

^ Keep Houston Press Free Support Us LocalCommunityJournalismI Support Support the independent voice of Houston and help keep the future of Houston Press free. Support UsAs long as this last year has felt, it's almost time for spring training again. As spring training approaches, here are a few names to watch early this season. It's more likely that Straw is a stopgap measure until the Astros can find a permanent replacement in center field. Tucker needs to continue to mature and turn into the "next" Springer for the Astros in the outfield.

^ Keep Houston Press Free Support Us LocalCommunityJournalismI Support Support the independent voice of Houston and help keep the future of Houston Press free. ), Tuesday night reports just after news of Springer's deal hit Twitter suggested Brantley might join his now former teammate in Toronto. Fortunately, those rumors turned out to be inaccurate and on Wednesday Brantley's deal was widely reported. In 2020's COVID-shortened season, Brantley hit .300 with an OPS of .840. With the departure of Springer, Brantley's signing looms large for a team set to lose two-thirds of its starting lineup plus key backup Josh Reddick in one offseason.

^ Keep Houston Press Free Support Us LocalCommunityJournalismI Support Support the independent voice of Houston and help keep the future of Houston Press free. The financial reality is that the Astros were strapped with the kinds of contracts that just made signing Springer an impossibility. At their peak, few teams dared run on the Astros outfield and batters understood if it was even barely within reach of Springer, he was likely to catch it. Springer DingersForget all the huge homers he hit in his career as an Astro, the very term "Springer Dinger" is simply delightful. Playoff GreatnessAnd speaking of clutch play, Springer may very well be one of the greatest MLB playoff hitters of all time.

George Strait takes on Cardi B's 'WAP'...sort of By now, we've all listened to WAP in some variation or another — but never quite like this.

That means the Rockets will have even less room to maneuver than they would have if the cap number had increased. Free agency is set to start in a week and the Rockets probably won't even have a fully assembled roster before December. LocalCommunityJournalismI Support Support the independent voice of Houston and help keep the future of Houston Press free. On one hand, this could deal a serious blow to the Rockets' chances right now. Whatever the case, it is going to be a very fast and very awkward offseason for the Rockets.

It was an ugly chapter for the Astros that ended with Osuna's injury after just four appearances in 2020. Springer given qualifying offer, but not Brantley. Joe Smith, who opted out of the 2020 season due to the pandemic, should return as well, but the Astros will be in search of more relief arms going forward. LocalCommunityJournalismI Support Support the independent voice of Houston and help keep the future of Houston Press free. Christian Javier, who was one of the Astros best starters in 2020, was named a finalist for Rookie of the Year.

These famous Japanese sandwiches are coming to Houston You'll have to act quickly to get your hands on a Sandoitchi Japanese sandwich.

Actor Eddie Hassell, 30, killed in Texas shooting Hassell's best known for his role in NBC's “Surface” and the 2010 film “The Kids Are All...

If that weren't enough, they lost both Justin Verlander and Yordan Alvarez along with closer Roberto Osuna to season ending injuries. Here are the winners and losers from a wild and surprising season. He was also the Astros best player in this virus-shortened season. Young PitchingThe Astros entered the season understanding they would have to rely on some young arms, particularly out of the bullpen, after the offseason losses. He was their best hitter and continues to be one of the best defensive infielders in the game.

For the second straight night, the Astros won in an elimination game against Tampa Bay 4-3, this time forcing a Game 6 on Friday after going down 3-1 in this best-of-seven series. Unlike Game 4, however, this one began and ended in dramatic fashion with bookend home runs by two of the team's biggest stars. Sandwiched in between was some incredible pitching by both teams in a game that was driven entirely by the long ball. Well, Houston still isn't good for guys named Nick Anderson and the walk off home run was against Rays reliever Nick Anderson (no relation). The Astros led off the game with a solo shot from George Springer, his nineteenth postseason home run.

George Springer had two more dingers in the Astros win over the A's. On Wednesday, the Astros can close it out with a three-game sweep and prepare to meet the winner of the Rays-Yankees matchup. Jim Crane needs to open up his wallet for George Springer. With two home runs, Springer now has the second most postseason home runs in history at Dodger Stadium. With his impending free agency, it seems clearer than ever that the Astros should do whatever they must to retain him.

In 2017, the Astros went into the postseason with great hope and a newly acquired Justin Verlander. In 2018, they went into the postseason with experience from the previous year and, again, great hope, even if they were a little banged up. #ForTheH pic.twitter.com/TmDcLupDIn — Houston Astros (@astros) September 26, 2020Still, with a football team in town that's 0-3, who am I to quibble over how or why our baseball team is celebrating a playoff berth, right? The condensed nature of this postseason, with fewer off days than a normal postseason, probably won't help much. Sadly, the Astros offseason carries far more intrigue than anything taking place on the field for them this postseason.

So, this past Sunday could very well be George Springer's last game in an Astro uniform in Minute Maid Park, as the 31-year-old outfielder is set to hit free agency after the season is over. With Mookie Betts signing a gargantuan, nearly $400 million extension with the Dodgers, Springer is likely the top outfielder on the market. There is little doubt that Astros fans would want Springer back. Jose Altuve is the franchise icon, Alex Bregman is their best player, but George Springer is the heart and soul of the team. What better way to close the gap than to get the guy who won a World Series MVP against the Dodgers in 2017?

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It feels like the season just ended, and considering the Astros played on the very last possible day of the year in game seven of the World Series, it kinda did. Now, as we race towards opening day, there are questions the Astros must answer, some of which could alter the franchise on and off the field. When with the MLB hand down its findings and punishment from the Astros sign stealing investigation? But considering the sign stealing and the Brandon Taubman situation before that, it would be surprising if Luhnow doesn't face serious league punishment. No doubt there are those in baseball who want MLB to throw the book at the Astros and Luhnow in particular.

This news came down as rumors began to swirl that the Astros could move on from shortstop Carlos Correa. Here we go....Gerrit Cole earned his generational wealthMan, we all knew Gerrit Cole was gonna get paid, but NINE years... and $324 MILLION... Look, the Astros will never, ever be in the "nine year contract" sweepstakes, when it comes to free agency. In 2017, the Astros signed Brian McCann, Josh Reddick, and Carlos Beltran, and eventually traded for Verlander. So, I will assume, for now, the chalk is that Correa will be with the Astros when spring training arrives in February.

According to Ken Rosenthal from The Athletic, the Astros have looked into a potential trade of Carlos Correa to help free up salary, perhaps even in an effort to retain Gerrit Cole. After Strasberg resigned with the Washington Nationals for $245 million, it is likely Cole will seek a salary of $300 million or more. There are also those who believe that Correa, who has been a stellar defensive shortstop, is playing out of position. Still, moving Correa would need to bring a significant return given his age, experience and obvious skillset. The Astros, in addition to holes in the starting lineup, will need to address free agency in the bullpen as well.

Ezra Shaw/Getty ImagesHOUSTON - Three Astros players were recognized on Thursday when Louisville Sluggers announced the 2019 Silver Slugger Award winners, which honors the top offensive players at each position in each league. Third baseman Alex Bregman and outfielder George Springer both received their Silver Slugger Awards as Astros. Right-handed pitcher Zack Greinke, who team traded for during the season to bolster the Astros' pitching rotation, took him his second Silver Slugger Award for his time with the Diamondbacks. There is no Silver Slugger Award in the American League because pitchers do not take at-bats. Springer hit .292 this season while coming through with 39 homers, 96 RBI and 20 doubles to win his second Silver Slugger Award.

Ezra Shaw/Getty ImagesHOUSTON - Three Astros players were recognized on Thursday when Louisville Sluggers announced the 2019 Silver Slugger Award winners, which honors the top offensive players at each position in each league. Third baseman Alex Bregman and outfielder George Springer both received their Silver Slugger Awards as Astros. Right-handed pitcher Zack Greinke, who team traded for during the season to bolster the Astros' pitching rotation, took him his second Silver Slugger Award for his time with the Diamondbacks. There is no Silver Slugger Award in the American League because pitchers do not take at-bats. Springer hit .292 this season while coming through with 39 homers, 96 RBI and 20 doubles to win his second Silver Slugger Award.

Let's look at the six biggest player decisions they will need to make this offseason. Gerrit ColeLet's start with the biggest free agent name on the list and get this over with quickly. The Astros aren't going to pay that for a variety of reasons, so they are going to lose him, unfortunately. George SpringerEven though Springer is up for arbitration, it is his last such negotiation before free agency. All options are certainly on the table, but expect the Astros to push off any big contract decisions for Correa until next offseason.

Houston - We have waited patiently all day for tonight's Game 7 between the Astros and Nationals. The Astros need to set the tone and attack Scherzer early and strike first in the opening inning. I trust the bullpen but Greinke needs to deliver. They need to play relaxed just like they did in game six that produced a win and evened this World Series at three games a piece. They need Trea Turner to produce in the leadoff spot and rely on guys like Rendon, Soto, and Zimmerman to get after Greinke early in the game.

HOUSTON - Twenty bars and restaurants in the Houston area are ready to pour Astros outfielder George Springer's Championship Reserve beer, but they can only serve it if the Astros are able to clinch the World Series title Wednesday evening. If the Astros win, the team will also be celebrating with the limited-edition beer inside the locker room. In early October, Springer served as an honorary brewmaster, helping to create the Budweiser Championship Reserve. Springer visited the Houston brewery and worked alongside Anheuser Busch brewmaster Rich Cooper. You can find Springer's beer at the following locations:Christian's Tailgate Bar, 2820 White Oak Drive.

#TakeItBack @astros @abc13houston Bob Slovak (@BobSlovak13) October 30, 2019Houston Native Anthony Rendon with two run shot to put Nats up 5-2. HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) -- The Houston Astros still have a shot at their second World Series title. They'll just have to do it in a winner-take-all Game 7 against the Washington Nationals. He became just the second manager in World Series history to be tossed from a game. Sean Doolittle relieved Strasburg, shutting the door for a Washington win.With the 7-2 win, the Nationals forced Game 7.

#Astros #TakeItBack #WorldSeries Greg Bailey (@GregBailey13) October 28, 2019Carlos remember that time I predicted your World Series home? #astros pic.twitter.com/RYLKhBq0yd David Nuo (@DavidNunoABC13) October 28, 2019Cole is off the charts (again). Truly elite #WorldSeries #Astros #TakeItBack Greg Bailey (@GregBailey13) October 28, 201915 career postseason HR for Springer. Brantley and Alex Bregman both sent balls to the warning track in the field, just short of home runs that resulted in outs. It cut the Astros lead to 4-1.The Nationals seemed to be gaining some momentum after Cole walked Ryan Zimmerman.

#Astros #TakeItBack #WorldSeries Greg Bailey (@GregBailey13) October 28, 2019Carlos remember that time I predicted your World Series home? #astros pic.twitter.com/RYLKhBq0yd David Nuo (@DavidNunoABC13) October 28, 2019Cole is off the charts (again). Truly elite #WorldSeries #Astros #TakeItBack Greg Bailey (@GregBailey13) October 28, 201915 career postseason HR for Springer. Brantley and Bregman both sent balls to the warning track in the field, just short of home runs that resulted in outs. It cut the Astros lead to 4-1.The Nationals seemed to be gaining some momentum after Cole walked Ryan Zimmerman.

#astros pic.twitter.com/RYLKhBq0yd David Nuo (@DavidNunoABC13) October 28, 2019Cole is off the charts (again). Truly elite #WorldSeries #Astros #TakeItBack Greg Bailey (@GregBailey13) October 28, 2019Yordan 3 for 3. Brantley and Bregman both sent balls to the warning track in the field, just short of home runs that resulted in outs. It cut the Astros lead to 4-1.The Nationals seemed to be gaining some momentum after Cole walked Ryan Zimmerman. The Nationals hope he's available for a Game 7, if necessary.RELATED:The World Series is set to return to Houston on Tuesday for a Game 6.

WASHINGTON, D.C. (KTRK) -- After a dominant Game 4 victory in the World Series, the Houston Astros are riding all the momentum going into Game 5.George Springer fell down 0-2 in the count, but fought back and was walked by Joe Ross to start the night. Jose Altuve hit into a double play to erase the lead-off walk. It was announced Sunday afternoon that Max Scherzer was scratched due to neck spasms.RELATED:When speaking to the media, Scherzer said he could barely lift his arm and that it's impossible for him to pitch right now. The Nationals hope he's available for a Game 7, if necessary.RELATED:The World Series is set to return to Houston on Tuesday for a Game 6. Whoever wins Sunday night will be hoping to celebrate on Tuesday.

WASHINGTON, D.C. (KTRK) -- After a dominant Game 4 victory in the World Series, the Houston Astros are riding all the momentum going into Game 5.George Springer fell down 0-2 in the count, but fought back and was walked by Joe Ross to start the night. Jose Altuve hit into a double play to erase the lead-off walk. It was announced Sunday afternoon that Max Scherzer was scratched due to neck spasms.RELATED:When speaking to the media, Scherzer said he could barely lift his arm and that it's impossible for him to pitch right now. The Nationals hope he's available for a Game 7, if necessary.RELATED:The World Series is set to return to Houston on Tuesday for a Game 6. Whoever wins Sunday night will be hoping to celebrate on Tuesday.

8-1 win to tie the #WorldSeries2019 #TakeItBack Greg Bailey (@GregBailey13) October 27, 2019EMBED >More News Videos Mattress Mack said he's still expecting to distribute lots of free mattresses after the World Series. Brantley followed Altuve's footsteps with a blooper to centerfield.Bregman continued the Astros' momentum with a line-drive single to left field that brought Altuve home to give the Astros a 1-0 lead. Marisnick successfully stole second base in the midst of Springer's at-bat. It led to Bregman completely silencing Nationals park with a grand slam that was rocked near the left field pole to extend the Astros lead to 8-1. A strikeout from Tucker ended the Astros' monstrous inning.Hector Rondon entered in the seventh, and Victor Robles reached base on a single with one out.

Chirinos HR and Bregman slam, plus gutty bullpen and a little #Astros defense. 8-1 win to tie the #WorldSeries2019 #TakeItBack Greg Bailey (@GregBailey13) October 27, 2019EMBED >More News Videos Mattress Mack said he's still expecting to distribute lots of free mattresses after the World Series. Brantley followed Altuve's footsteps with a blooper to centerfield.Bregman continued the Astros' momentum with a line-drive single to left field that brought Altuve home to give the Astros a 1-0 lead. Marisnick successfully stole second base in the midst of Springer's at-bat. It led to Bregman completely silencing Nationals park with a grand slam that was rocked near the left field pole to extend the Astros lead to 8-1.

With Game 4 essentially being another do-or-die game for the Astros, A.J. Brantley followed Altuve's footsteps with a blooper to centerfield.Bregman continued the Astros' momentum with a line-drive single to left field that brought Altuve home to give the Astros a 1-0 lead. Marisnick successfully stole second base in the midst of Springer's at-bat. It led to Bregman completely silencing Nationals park with a grand slam that was rocked near the left field pole to extend the Astros lead to 8-1. It was just the second grand slam in Astros postseason history.Gurriel, Correa and Marisnick were all walked in the seventh and it was the fifth walk of the seventh.

EMBED >More News Videos Mattress Mack said he's still expecting to distribute lots of free mattresses after the World Series. With Game 4 essentially being another do-or-die game for the Astros, A.J. Hinch and company seem confident in the rookie pitcher's abilities.Altuve started the night with a single that just got past Trea Turner after George Springer struck out in lead-off. Brantley followed Altuve's footsteps with a blooper to centerfield.Bregman continued the Astros' momentum with a line-drive single to left field that brought Altuve home to give the Astros a 1-0 lead. In what is a bullpen day for the Astros in Game 4, another strong outing will be needed to tie the series.An Astros win Saturday night would guarantee the World Series returning to Houston for at least a Game 6.

The Astros fell in a massive 0-2 hole in the World Series losing 12-3 to the Washington Nationals Wednesday night at Minute Maid Park. The Astros weren't exactly world beaters in that category during the season, but they weren't terrible either. Verlander became the first pitcher in Major League history to lose his first five starts in the World Series. It's ironic considering in Game 1 George Springer hit his fifth straight homer in a World Series game, breaking a record previous held by Lou Gehrig and Reggie Jackson. Only three teams in major league history have lost the first two games at home and came back to win the World Series.

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) -- How do top MLB players work out?Here's a hint: a lot harder than you or I do!Ben Fairchild trains dozens of professional athletes, including both Astros star George Springer and Nationals star Anthony Rendon, at his Memorial area facility, Fairchild Sports Performance. "These guys were born to play at this level and I think it would be so foolish to think we have anything to do with that," explained Fairchild. "Fairchild trains athletes of all ages. "In professional baseball terms, George being 30 years old, Anthony being 29, they're sort of middle aged," he explained. "Exercises are designed to extend careers by focusing on mobility and sequencing.And, there's another reason Fairchild is in such high demand.

The Houston Astros took on the Washington Nationals during Game 1 of the World Series at Minute Maid Park in Houston on Oct. 22, 2019. HOUSTON - Even with nearly unbeatable Gerrit Cole on the mound to start the game, the Houston Astros dropped game one of the World Series, 5-4, to the Washington Nationals. In 4 career postseason starts at Minute Maid Park, he has struck out 43 batters while issuing just 4 walks. 5 - Consecutive World Series games in which George Springer has homered in. 10 - Extra base hits for Springer as a leadoff hitter, which ties Lou Brock for the most in World Series history.

The Astros came back from a Game 1 loss to the New York Yankees in the ALCS to beat them in six games. They will need to do the same thing in the World Series as they fell to the Nationals 5-4 Tuesday. Meanwhile, the Astros worked their way back into the game with two runs off Nats relievers. Starters StruggleRelated Stories Street Closures in Houston For the World SeriesFor all the hoopla surrounding the starting pitching matchups in this series, Game 1 was a bit of a pitching dud. Springer Dinger RecordGeorge Springer's seventh inning home run gave him five straight World Series games with a long ball.

COLE'S TOP QUOTES DURING HIS POST GAME NEWS CONFERENCE"I felt like I wasn't crisp tonight. These are the two best teams in the world right now so you don't beat yourself up too much. "It's one of the two best teams in the world right now. JOSE ALTUVE'S TOP COMMENTS FROM HIS POST GAME INTERVIEW"I thought George hit the ball good in the 8th. GEORGE SPRINGER'S TOP POST GAME COMMENTS"We offensively passed the baton to the next guy a lot today and you have to give credit where credit is due."

2-0 #Astros #TakeItBack Greg Bailey (@GregBailey13) October 23, 2019#Astros give Cole a 2 run lead and theyve ignited the loudest crowd in baseball. #TakeItBack @abc13houston Bob Slovak (@BobSlovak13) October 23, 2019EMBED >More News Videos Houston Astros advance to World Series for 2nd time in 3 yearsEMBED >More News Videos As the 'Stros head into the 2019 World Series, we asked some of them if they had any rituals or superstitions before the game. HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) -- Despite a record-setting night by George Springer, the Astros fell to the Nationals 5-4 in Game 1 of the World Series Tuesday night.The Astros defense faced early trouble after Cole allowed a lead-off base hit by Trea Turner, who then stole second base. Michael Brantley took a strikeout, but during Alex Bregman's at-bat, Springer pounced on third base on a Scherzer wild pitch. The right-hander, who went seven innings, came into the game after winning 19 consecutive decisions over his last 25 starts.

2-0 #Astros #TakeItBack Greg Bailey (@GregBailey13) October 23, 2019#Astros give Cole a 2 run lead and theyve ignited the loudest crowd in baseball. 1st inning gets an A+#TakeItBack Greg Bailey (@GregBailey13) October 23, 2019Cole gives up monster shot to Zimmerman in 2nd. #Astros #TakeItBack Greg Bailey (@GregBailey13) October 23, 2019AJ is steaming. #Astros #TakeItBack Greg Bailey (@GregBailey13) October 23, 2019Nationals and Scherzer survive 4th. Michael Brantley took a strikeout, but during Alex Bregman's at-bat, Springer pounced on third base on a Scherzer wild pitch.

2-0 #Astros #TakeItBack Greg Bailey (@GregBailey13) October 23, 2019#Astros give Cole a 2 run lead and theyve ignited the loudest crowd in baseball. #Astros #TakeItBack Greg Bailey (@GregBailey13) October 23, 2019AJ is steaming. #Astros #TakeItBack Greg Bailey (@GregBailey13) October 23, 2019Nationals and Scherzer survive 4th. "The Astros and Washington Nationals, the National League champions, square off for Game 1 Tuesday night at Minute Maid Park.Houston sends in pitcher Gerrit Cole to start. Michael Brantley took a strikeout, but during Alex Bregman's at-bat, Springer pounced on third base on a Scherzer wild pitch.

2-0 #Astros #TakeItBack Greg Bailey (@GregBailey13) October 23, 2019#Astros give Cole a 2 run lead and theyve ignited the loudest crowd in baseball. 1st inning gets an A+#TakeItBack Greg Bailey (@GregBailey13) October 23, 2019Cole gives up monster shot to Zimmerman in 2nd. #Astros #TakeItBack Greg Bailey (@GregBailey13) October 23, 2019AJ is steaming. #Astros #TakeItBack Greg Bailey (@GregBailey13) October 23, 2019EMBED >More News Videos Houston Astros advance to World Series for 2nd time in 3 yearsEMBED >More News Videos As the 'Stros head into the 2019 World Series, we asked some of them if they had any rituals or superstitions before the game. "The Astros and Washington Nationals, the National League champions, square off for Game 1 Tuesday night at Minute Maid Park.Houston sends in pitcher Gerrit Cole to start.

2-0 #Astros #TakeItBack Greg Bailey (@GregBailey13) October 23, 2019#Astros give Cole a 2 run lead and theyve ignited the loudest crowd in baseball. 1st inning gets an A+#TakeItBack Greg Bailey (@GregBailey13) October 23, 2019Cole gives up monster shot to Zimmerman in 2nd. Yordan leading off @Astros 2nd. "The Astros and Washington Nationals, the National League champions, square off for Game 1 Tuesday night at Minute Maid Park.Houston sends in pitcher Gerrit Cole to start. Michael Brantley took a strikeout, but during Alex Bregman's at-bat, Springer pounced on third base on a Scherzer wild pitch.

EMBED >More News Videos Daniella said it is enjoyable to watch the hard work all of the Astros have put in throughout the years. HOUSTON, TEXAS (KTRK) -- It's always a family affair when the Astros win.From kids to wives, we can't get enough of seeing the players celebrate on the field with their loved ones.Catcher Robinson Chirino's son had a high-five for everyone after the big win. His jean jacket was bedazzled with orange and blue with their last name across the back.Jose Altuve once again had his daughter Melanie join him for the celebration on the field. He then carried her to greet Astros Hall of Famer Craig Biggio.Pitcher Brad Peacock posed for pictures with his infant son in his arms.Catcher Martin Maldonado carried his daughter on the field. She wore a sweater in support of her favorite player, her dad.George Springer was all smiles with Michael Brantley's kids before he found his parents and his wife Charlise.Justin Verlander's wife Kate Upton was all hugs after the big win.

Party with Champions: The best spots to watch the Astros World Series games in HoustonHouston Astros right fielder Josh Reddick (22), Houston Astros left fielder Michael Brantley (23) and Houston Astros center fielder George Springer (4) celebrate in the clubhouse after the Astros won the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park in Houston on Saturday, Oct. 19, 2019. less Houston Astros right fielder Josh Reddick (22), Houston Astros left fielder Michael Brantley (23) and Houston Astros center fielder George Springer (4) celebrate in the clubhouse after the Astros won the ... more Photo: Karen Warren/Staff Photographer Photo: Karen Warren/Staff Photographer Image 1 of / 310 Caption Close Party with Champions: The best spots to watch the Astros World Series games in Houston 1 / 310 Back to GalleryIts time for some world-class revelry after the Astros clinched the AL pennant. If you dont have an Astros World Series viewing spot locked down, weve lined up more than 20 perfect Houston bars to soak up the celebration. On HoustonChronicle.com: Astros: One swing, 'complete mayhem,' and the AL pennantFrom down-to-earth neighborhood favorites like D&T Drive Inn to the innovative 8 Row Flint in the Heights, its all about seeing Astros' stars deliver the best postseason moments in the right location and ambience. Venture off the beaten path, away from the traditional sports bars--and hit some of these unexpected hotspots in Houston. TEXAS SPORTS NATION: The only newsletter for the Houston sports superfan

It doesn't matter how poorly the numbers look if the hits come at the right time. When Astros fans remember this series, no one's going to complain about how Yuli Gurriel batted under .150 for the series. The Astros would ride that wave to the Bronx and take Game 3 behind Gerrit Cole's gritty pitching performance. Now, Altuve to this point had been the best Astros hitter in the series (batting over .300). Altuve became the only player besides Bill Mazeroski to hit a home run to end a Yankees postseason series with a loss.

That score was followed by a base hit by Aaron Judge. After a Michael Brantley strikeout, Bregman floated a line drive to center field for a base hit. Didi Gregorious was up next with a base hit off the end of his bat to shallow left, breaking up at that point Verlander's streak of retiring 10 straight batters. Bregman ended the inning with a grounder to shortstop for the force out at second.In the fifth, Verlander struck out Gardner swinging, followed by a LaMahieu flyout to right. Verlander struck out two more and brought his total up to nine.Brad Peacock entered for Verlander in the bottom of the eighth.

That score was followed by a base hit by Aaron Judge. After a Michael Brantley strikeout, Bregman floated a line drive to center field for a base hit. Didi Gregorious was up next with a base hit off the end of his bat to shallow left, breaking up at that point Verlander's streak of retiring 10 straight batters. Bregman ended the inning with a grounder to shortstop for the force out at second.In the fifth, Verlander struck out Gardner swinging, followed by a LaMahieu flyout to right. Verlander struck out two more and brought his total up to nine.Brad Peacock entered for Verlander in the bottom of the eighth.