The normal script for an Astros game in the late inning involves strikeouts, runners left on base, and blow saves. Not today.
Brett Oberholtzer put the Astros in a winning position today by bending and not breaking. He gave up 11 hits but gave up only two runs. The Red Sox were 1-for-6 in runners in scoring position, and left nine runs on base in general.
The Astros' first blast of offense came from Jason Castro in the third inning, the Astros' catcher flipped the ninth pitch he faced from Jack Peavy.
Josh Fields pitched 1.2 innings and struck out three. He did give up the sac fly to tie the game.
The script was set, tied at two. The Astros were ready for the collapse, but Jose Altuve stepped into the box. The Astros' All-Star ripped a double to lead off the eighth. Jason Castro moved him to third on a ground out. George Springer was intentional walked, and Jon Singleton struck out. Next batter, Chris Carter, dribbled a ball to short that clearly looked like it was doomed for the force play. George springer beat out the play, allowing Altuve to score.
Chad Qualls cleaned up the two batters that Tony Sipp left in the top of the ninth with a double play by Dustin Pedroia to end the game. The play was review and upheld. Astros win.