The Houston Astros edged the Chicago White Sox 2-0 in a tightly contested game that concluded a four-game series, with the decisive two runs coming on a single by Nelson Velázquez in the eighth inning.
A Pitching Showdown
Nelson Velázquez delivered the game‑changing hit, driving in two runs after Yordan Alvarez and Jose Altuve were in the lineup, breaking a scoreless deadlock and securing the Astros' victory.
Right‑hander Hayden Wesneski dominated the middle of the game, tossing seven shutout innings, allowing just one hit and striking out five, while left‑hander Davis Martin contributed five and two‑thirds of scoreless work in his first start since mid‑August, scattering five hits and recording three strikeouts.
The White Sox, despite creating several scoring chances, were unable to capitalize; a leadoff triple by Tristan Peters was thrown out at home, and later, after Munetaka Murakami loaded the bases, Miguel Vargas grounded into a double play to end the threat.
Closer Josh Hader sealed the win with his 22nd save of the season, while A.J. Blubaugh pitched the eighth inning, surrendering two hits. The Astros' bullpen remained effective, with Sean Newcomb and Braden Montgomery also seeing action, while the team's depth was evident as Sam Antonacci and Daulton Varsho watched from the bench.
Looking ahead, the series will conclude with a matchup between Houston’s right‑hander Luis Castillo and Chicago’s right‑hander Hunter Brown, setting the stage for the next installment of the rivalry.