MLB Gifts
Ronel Blanco Shined Again as Astros Defeat Blue Jays 5-1 to Climb Above
Apr
On Tuesday night, Ronel Blanco shined again in his most impressive performance of the season, steering the Houston Astros to a 5-1 victory over the Toronto Blue Jays at Daikin Park. This win elevated the Astros’ record to 12-11, marking their first time above.
Blanco, who previously no-hit the Blue Jays in his 2024 season debut, continued his dominance against Toronto by pitching 6 2/3 innings, allowing just two hits and one run. He struck out three batters and issued two walks, showcasing a fastball that reached up to 96 mph, complemented by a sharp slider and an effective curveball. Astros manager Joe Espada praised Blanco’s outing, noting it as his best of the season, highlighting his efficiency and command on the mound.
The Astros’ bullpen maintained the momentum, with Bryan King, Bryan Abreu, and Josh Hader combining to retire the final seven batters. Abreu and Hader each struck out two of the three batters they faced, sealing the team’s second consecutive two-hitter against the Blue Jays.
Offensively, the Astros capitalized early, scoring three runs in the first inning off Toronto’s Chris Bassitt. Jose Altuve led off with a single, followed by a walk to Yordan Alvarez. Jeremy Peña’s single drove in Altuve, and Christian Walker’s single brought home Alvarez. Brendan Rodgers then added another RBI single, giving Houston a 3-0 lead.
Bassitt, who had been effective in his previous starts, struggled in the first inning, allowing more runs than in his prior four outings combined. He settled down afterward, but the early deficit proved too much for the Blue Jays to overcome.
The Blue Jays’ lone run came from Nathan Lukes, who hit his first home run of the season in the fifth inning. However, the Astros responded in the seventh with a solo home run by Isaac Paredes, extending their lead to 5-1.
Peña and Walker each recorded three hits, contributing significantly to Houston’s offensive success. The victory not only showcased Blanco’s resurgence but also highlighted the Astros’ balanced attack, both on the mound and at the plate.
