Justin Verlander Leads Astros to 4-3 Victory Over Guardians

Verlander earns his 262nd career win as Astros secure AL West title and prepare for postseason.

Justin Verlander pitched six innings, allowing three runs and striking out five, to help the Houston Astros edge the Cleveland Guardians 4-3.
The Astros capitalized on Cleveland starter Ben Lively's early wildness, scoring three runs in the second inning, including two unearned runs due to a throwing error.
José Ramírez hit his 39th home run of the season and drove in all three of Cleveland's runs, moving closer to joining the 40-40 club with 40 home runs and 40 stolen bases.
The victory solidified the Astros' position as AL West champions, with the team set to host either Detroit or Kansas City in the upcoming Wild Card Series.
Houston's bullpen, including Hector Neris, Ryan Pressly, and Shawn Dubin, combined to hold the Guardians to two hits over the final three innings, securing the win.