Diaz Hits Late Homer to Win Game for Astros
- Yainer Diaz hit a tiebreaking solo homer in the ninth inning for the Astros.
- The Houston Astros secured a 5-4 win over the Boston Red Sox.
- The late-game heroics of Diaz led to a thrilling victory for Houston.
HOUSTON (AP) — In a thrilling finish, Yainer Diaz’s tiebreaking solo home run in the ninth inning propelled the Houston Astros to a 5-4 victory over the Boston Red Sox on Monday night. The win came despite a season-high four errors from the Astros, marking an unusually sloppy defensive performance for the team. The game saw the Red Sox initially take control with a leadoff home run from Jarren Duran and a two-run shot from Masataka Yoshida in the sixth inning. The Astros, who were trailing 4-2 after Yoshida's homer, fought back in the sixth. Jeremy Peña's single and a subsequent hit by Victor Caratini set the stage for a sacrifice fly from pinch-hitter Jon Singleton, narrowing the Red Sox's lead to 4-3. The game was tightly contested, with both teams exchanging leads and opportunities, showcasing the intensity of the matchup. Houston's starting pitcher, Yusei Kikuchi, allowed six hits and three runs—only one of which was earned—over 5 2/3 innings in his fourth start since being traded from Toronto. The Red Sox capitalized on defensive errors, including a misplay by rookie third baseman Shay Whitcomb that contributed to their early scoring. Looking ahead, the Astros are set to welcome back RHP Justin Verlander from the injured list for Wednesday's finale. The series continues Tuesday night with Red Sox RHP Nick Pivetta facing Astros RHP Ronel Blanco.