Reds 5, Astros 3: Houston Loses Series Opener to Cincinnati

Game Recap

HOUSTON, Texas - The Cincinnati Reds defeated the Houston Astros 5-3 in the opening game of their three-game series at Minute Maid Park on Monday night. Luis Castillo started for the Reds and allowed three runs on six hits over 5 2/3 innings. He struck out seven batters and walked one. Justin Verlander started for the Astros and allowed five runs on eight hits over 5 1/3 innings. He struck out six batters and walked two. The Reds took an early lead in the first inning when Kyle Farmer hit a two-run home run off Verlander. They added to their lead in the third inning when Tyler Naquin hit a solo home run. The Astros cut into the lead in the fourth inning when Yordan Alvarez hit a two-run double. They tied the game in the sixth inning when Jeremy Pena hit a solo home run. The Reds regained the lead in the seventh inning when Joey Votto hit a two-run single off Astros reliever Phil Maton. The Astros had a chance to tie the game in the ninth inning, but Chas McCormick grounded out to end the game.

Analysis

The Reds' victory was their first against the Astros since 2019. It snapped a five-game losing streak to the Astros. The Astros' loss was their second in a row. They have now lost four of their last six games. The Reds improved to 15-22 on the season, while the Astros dropped to 18-19. The two teams will meet again on Tuesday night at Minute Maid Park.