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Altuve Blasts 2 HRs as Astros Rout Red Sox
Houston's star second baseman powers team to blowout win in series opener
Mar. 31, 2026 at 5:32am
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Jose Altuve hit two home runs and drove in four runs to lead the Houston Astros to an 8-1 victory over the Boston Red Sox in the first game of their three-game series. Astros starting pitcher Lance McCullers Jr. took a shutout bid into the seventh inning in his season debut.
Why it matters
The Astros are looking to bounce back from a disappointing 2025 season and get off to a strong start in 2026. Altuve's big game will help fuel their offense, while McCullers' solid outing is a positive sign for the team's pitching staff.
The details
Altuve went 4-for-5 at the plate, blasting solo home runs in the first and fifth innings to power the Astros' offense. McCullers allowed just one run on four hits over 6.2 innings, striking out seven batters. The Astros scored three runs in the third inning and added two more in the eighth to cruise to the victory.
- The game was played on March 31, 2026.
- Altuve hit his first home run in the bottom of the first inning.
- Altuve hit his second home run in the bottom of the fifth inning.
The players
Jose Altuve
The star second baseman for the Houston Astros, known for his consistent hitting and power.
Lance McCullers Jr.
The Astros' starting pitcher, making his season debut after a strong 2025 campaign.
Boston Red Sox
The Astros' opponent, a storied franchise looking to bounce back from a down year in 2025.
Houston Astros
The home team, aiming to return to the playoffs after missing out in 2025.
What they’re saying
“Jose was locked in tonight. When he's swinging the bat like that, it really sets the tone for our whole lineup.”
— Dusty Baker, Astros Manager
What’s next
The Astros and Red Sox will continue their three-game series on April 1, 2026.
The takeaway
Altuve's big game shows the Astros' offense is primed to bounce back in 2026, while McCullers' strong outing is a positive sign for the team's pitching staff as they look to return to the playoffs.
