Athletics' Rooker hits walk-off homer in 10th to beat Astros

Rookie slugger Brent Rooker powers Oakland to dramatic win with career day at the plate.

Apr. 6, 2026 at 4:05am

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Brent Rooker hit two home runs, including a three-run walk-off shot in the bottom of the 10th inning, to lead the Oakland Athletics to a 12-10 victory over the Houston Astros. Rooker finished the game with a career-high six RBIs, while teammate Tyler Soderstrom added a bases-clearing triple and scored three runs.

Why it matters

The Athletics' dramatic comeback win over the division-rival Astros keeps them in the playoff hunt in the competitive AL West. Rooker's breakout performance also showcases the team's promising young talent as they look to build on last season's success.

The details

Down 10-9 in the bottom of the 10th, the Athletics loaded the bases against Astros reliever Ryne Stanek. Rooker then stepped up and crushed a three-run homer to right field, giving Oakland the walk-off victory. Earlier in the game, Rooker had hit a two-run shot in the 6th inning to keep the Athletics close.

  • The game was played on Sunday, April 6, 2026.
  • Rooker hit his two-run homer in the 6th inning.
  • Rooker hit the game-winning three-run homer in the bottom of the 10th inning.

The players

Brent Rooker

A rookie outfielder for the Oakland Athletics who had a career day at the plate, hitting two home runs and driving in six runs, including the game-winning three-run shot in the 10th inning.

Tyler Soderstrom

An Athletics infielder who hit a bases-clearing triple and scored three runs to help power the team's comeback.

Ryne Stanek

The Astros relief pitcher who gave up the game-winning home run to Rooker in the 10th inning.

Houston Astros

The Athletics' division rival who were defeated in dramatic fashion on Sunday.

Oakland Athletics

The home team who rallied for the walk-off victory over the Astros.

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What they’re saying

“I was just trying to put a good swing on it and get the job done for the team. Couldn't have asked for a better outcome.”

— Brent Rooker, Athletics Outfielder

What’s next

The Athletics will look to build on this dramatic win as they continue their series against the Astros, with the next game scheduled for Tuesday, April 8th.

The takeaway

Rooker's heroics showcase the Athletics' young talent and resilience, as they battle to keep pace in the tough AL West division race. The team's ability to rally late and win close games could be a key factor in their playoff push this season.