Isaac Paredes' two-run homer gives Astros 2-1 win over Twins

Isaac Paredes hit a two‑run home run in the first inning of the May 19, 2026 game in Minneapolis, giving the Houston Astros a 2‑0 lead against the Minnesota Twins. Jason Alexander worked six scoreless innings for the Astros, allowing four hits and striking out four. The Twins rallied with a two‑out single by Josh Bell that drove in a run to make it 2‑1, but the Astros held on for the victory.

Key pitching notes include Twins starter Zebby Matthews allowing a run in the first inning before settling down for six innings, and Astros reliever Bryan King retiring the side in the ninth. Houston placed several players on the injured list before the game, including Lance McCullers Jr., while the Twins optioned top prospect Royce Lewis to Triple‑A.

The win moves the Astros ahead in the series, with Mike Burrows slated to start the finale against Twins right‑hander Joe Ryan.