Justin Verlander’s much-anticipated return to the Houston Astros was met with excitement at Minute Maid Park, but the three-time Cy Young Award winner’s comeback was spoiled by the Boston Red Sox in a 4-1 defeat. Despite flashes of vintage dominance, Verlander was unable to overcome a lack of run support as Houston’s offense struggled against Boston’s pitching staff.
Strong Start, Tough Finish for Verlander
Making his first start back with the Astros after being reacquired at the trade deadline, Verlander took the mound with a raucous crowd behind him. The 41-year-old right-hander came out sharp, recording five strikeouts through the first three innings while keeping Boston’s bats in check.
However, the Red Sox eventually found their rhythm against him. After escaping a jam in the fourth inning, Verlander ran into trouble in the fifth when Jarren Duran led off with a single and Rafael Devers delivered a two-run double off the left-field wall to break a scoreless tie. An additional run in the sixth, courtesy of a Triston Casas RBI single, ended Verlander’s night after six innings of work. He allowed three earned runs on seven hits while striking out seven.
Astros’ Offense Struggles Against Boston’s Pitching
While Verlander gave Houston a fighting chance, the Astros’ lineup was stifled by Red Sox starter Kutter Crawford, who tossed seven innings of one-run ball. Houston’s lone highlight at the plate came in the fourth inning when Yordan Alvarez crushed a solo home run to right-center field, momentarily tying the game.
The Astros had opportunities to rally but failed to capitalize, leaving eight runners stranded. Their best chance came in the seventh inning when Jose Altuve and Alex Bregman reached base with no outs, but a double-play grounder from Kyle Tucker deflated the momentum.
Boston added an insurance run in the eighth on a sacrifice fly from Connor Wong, sealing the Astros’ fate.
Looking Ahead
Despite the loss, Astros manager Dusty Baker remained upbeat about Verlander’s return to the rotation. “He gave us a solid outing,” Baker said postgame. “We just have to find ways to support him offensively.”
With the American League playoff race tightening, Houston will need a quick turnaround. Verlander’s presence gives the team a proven ace for the stretch run, and the Astros will be counting on his experience and leadership as they push for another postseason appearance. His next start will be crucial as Houston looks to regain its footing and keep pace in the playoff race.
