Astros Overcome Mets in Dramatic 11-Inning Victory Despite Altuve’s Ejection
The Houston Astros displayed remarkable resilience in their 10-5 triumph over the New York Mets in a marathon 11-inning game at Citi Field. The Astros' fortitude was exemplified not only by their performance on the field but also by their ability to remain composed following controversial moments, particularly one involving their star player, Jose Altuve.
The game took a dramatic turn during the seventh inning when a contentious call aggrieved Altuve and ultimately led to his ejection. Altuve, appearing to have fouled a ball off his left foot, was instead called out on an inning-ending groundout, much to his and the Astros' chagrin. The decision prompted Altuve to toss his bat and helmet in frustration, actions that earned him his second career ejection.
"They didn't see it," Altuve explained post-game. "I understand the guy behind the plate didn't see it because the catcher's there, but you have another three guys -- first, second and third. I felt like it was kind of obvious. That's why I was so mad."
The umpiring crew, led by James Jean behind the plate for the first time since his major league debut days earlier, upheld the call. Crew chief Alan Porter signaled the out, a decision that was not subject to video replay review, leaving the Astros without recourse.
Despite the setback, the Astros found a way to prevail in extra innings. Entering the 11th inning with the game tied, Jake Meyers delivered a crucial go-ahead single off Mets' reliever Matt Festa. The Astros then broke the game wide open with Joey Loperfido’s two-run single and Trey Cabbage’s two-run double, sealing the victory.
The triumph was especially significant for Houston, lifting their record to 42-41, marking a hard-fought return to above .500 for the first time this season. This achievement underscored the team’s perseverance, considering they opened the season with a dismal 7-19 record and were 12-24 before May 9. However, they found their groove in June, finishing the month with an impressive 17-8 record.
Reflecting on the team’s journey, bench coach Joe Espada expressed his unwavering belief in the squad. "I never lost faith in this group. I know that we were down, but we were not out, and I'm not surprised that we are where we are," he remarked.
Meyers, who played a pivotal role in the late-game heroics, echoed Espada’s sentiments. "It was a goal to get to .500 before the All-Star break. It kind of shows that we've been grinding through the season, ups and downs," Meyers noted.
Altuve’s contributions this season have been pivotal, with the veteran second baseman boasting a .304 batting average, 13 homers, 37 RBIs, and 13 stolen bases. His leadership and on-field prowess have been instrumental in the Astros' resurgence.
Espada, commenting on the controversial call that led to Altuve’s ejection, said, "The ball kind of took a different direction once it hit the ground, to Vientos. And [if] someone was going to get out of the box, second and third, and beat a ball out at first base, it's Jose Altuve. So if he's arguing, that ball hit him. And it looked like the ball hit him to me."
The Astros' ability to stay composed and execute in the clutch moments of the game highlighted their growing confidence and resilience. With the season nearing its midpoint, the team's recent surge instills optimism for a strong second half and potential postseason contention.
As the dust settled at Citi Field, the Astros' remarkable journey from early-season struggles to an above .500 record serves as a testament to their tenacity and unwavering commitment to winning. With leaders like Altuve and an unshakeable team spirit, Houston continues to prove they are a force to be reckoned with in the league.