Houston Astros lead AL West after 6-2 win over Royals

The Houston Astros defeated the Kansas City Royals 6-2 on Thursday, fueled by a season-high five home runs. Jeremy Peña opened the scoring with his 20th home run of the season, while Daulton Varsho, LaMonte Wade Jr., Yordan Alvarez, and Taylor Trammell also contributed solo homers.

Yordan Alvarez reached a significant milestone by hitting his 40th home run of the campaign, placing him just one behind American League leader Junior Caminero. Following the victory, Astros manager Joe Espada emphasized Alvarez’s importance to the team, stating, “Our club, without him, would be a completely different record.”

The win allows Houston to move into sole possession of the American League West lead, holding a one-game advantage over the Texas Rangers. The victory also moves the Astros back above a .500 winning percentage.