{"id":452979,"date":"2026-10-01T08:02:15","date_gmt":"2026-10-01T08:02:15","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/452979\/"},"modified":"2026-10-01T08:02:15","modified_gmt":"2026-10-01T08:02:15","slug":"astros-bryan-abreu-talks-about-white-soxs-hr-his-future-in-houston","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/452979\/","title":{"rendered":"Astros&#8217; Bryan Abreu talks about White Sox&#8217;s HR, his future in Houston"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><img alt=\"Houston Astros pitcher Bryan Abreu (52) is seen in the sixth inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"eager\" fetchpriority=\"high\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Astros pitcher Bryan Abreu (52) is seen in the sixth inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Astros manager Joe Espada lifts reliever Bryan Abreu (52) from the game during the eighth inning of Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series against the Chicago White Sox in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Astros manager Joe Espada lifts reliever Bryan Abreu (52) from the game during the eighth inning of Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series against the Chicago White Sox in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Astros pitcher Bryan Abreu reacts after giving up a 3-run home run by Chicago White Sox second baseman Chase Meidroth during the sixth inning of Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Astros pitcher Bryan Abreu reacts after giving up a 3-run home run by Chicago White Sox second baseman Chase Meidroth during the sixth inning of Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Astros pitcher Bryan Abreu pitches against the Chicago White Sox during the sixth inning of Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Astros pitcher Bryan Abreu pitches against the Chicago White Sox during the sixth inning of Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Astros Jose Altuve, left, Carlos Correa, and Yordan Alvarez (44) watch as the Chicago White Sox celebrate their 7-3 win in Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series, eliminating the Astros from the playoffs, in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Astros Jose Altuve, left, Carlos Correa, and Yordan Alvarez (44) watch as the Chicago White Sox celebrate their 7-3 win in Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series, eliminating the Astros from the playoffs, in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Astros Jose Altuve, left, Carlos Correa, Yordan Alvarez and Christian V\u00e1zquez watch as the Chicago White Sox celebrate their 7-3 win in Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series, eliminating the Astros from the playoffs, in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Astros Jose Altuve, left, Carlos Correa, Yordan Alvarez and Christian V\u00e1zquez watch as the Chicago White Sox celebrate their 7-3 win in Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series, eliminating the Astros from the playoffs, in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Astros Lucas Spence (28) walks through the dugout after the team\u2019s 7-3 loss to the Chicago White Sox during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Astros Lucas Spence (28) walks through the dugout after the team\u2019s 7-3 loss to the Chicago White Sox during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston\u2019s Daulton Varsho is seen in the dugout after undergoing left arthroscopic wrist surgery during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston\u2019s Daulton Varsho is seen in the dugout after undergoing left arthroscopic wrist surgery during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Astros pitcher Bryan Abreu (52) is seen in the sixth inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Astros pitcher Bryan Abreu (52) is seen in the sixth inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Astros second baseman Jose Altuve points to the bullpens as he rounds the bases after hitting a solo home run during the fourth inning of Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series against the Chicago White Sox in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Astros second baseman Jose Altuve points to the bullpens as he rounds the bases after hitting a solo home run during the fourth inning of Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series against the Chicago White Sox in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Astros second baseman Jose Altuve points to the bullpens as he runs past Chicago White Sox first baseman Munetaka Murakami (5) after hitting a solo home run during the fourth inning of Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Astros second baseman Jose Altuve points to the bullpens as he runs past Chicago White Sox first baseman Munetaka Murakami (5) after hitting a solo home run during the fourth inning of Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Astros second baseman Jose Altuve points to the bullpens as he runs past Chicago White Sox first baseman Munetaka Murakami (5) after hitting a solo home run during the fourth inning of Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Astros second baseman Jose Altuve points to the bullpens as he runs past Chicago White Sox first baseman Munetaka Murakami (5) after hitting a solo home run during the fourth inning of Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Astros second baseman Jose Altuve watches the flight of his solo home run during the fourth inning of Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series against the Chicago White Sox in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Astros second baseman Jose Altuve watches the flight of his solo home run during the fourth inning of Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series against the Chicago White Sox in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Astros second baseman Jose Altuve watches the flight of his solo home run during the fourth inning of Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series against the Chicago White Sox in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Astros second baseman Jose Altuve watches the flight of his solo home run during the fourth inning of Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series against the Chicago White Sox in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Chicago White Sox catcher Kyle Teel (8) and Houston Astros third baseman Isaac Paredes (15) get tangled up after Paredes struck out and tried to advance to first on the dropped third strike during the third inning of Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026. Paredes was called out at first.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Chicago White Sox catcher Kyle Teel (8) and Houston Astros third baseman Isaac Paredes (15) get tangled up after Paredes struck out and tried to advance to first on the dropped third strike during the third inning of Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026. Paredes was called out at first.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Astros designated hitter Yordan Alvarez (44) strikes out as Chicago White Sox catcher Kyle Teel (8) blocks the ball in the dirt during the third inning of Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Astros designated hitter Yordan Alvarez (44) strikes out as Chicago White Sox catcher Kyle Teel (8) blocks the ball in the dirt during the third inning of Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Astros second baseman Jose Altuve (27) singles against the Chicago White Sox during the first inning of Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Astros second baseman Jose Altuve (27) singles against the Chicago White Sox during the first inning of Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Astros designated hitter Yordan Alvarez (44) reacts in front of Chicago White Sox catcher Kyle Teel (8) after striking out during the first inning of Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Astros designated hitter Yordan Alvarez (44) reacts in front of Chicago White Sox catcher Kyle Teel (8) after striking out during the first inning of Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Astros shortstop Jeremy Pe\u00f1a (3) rounds the bases after hitting a solo home run off Chicago White Sox starting pitcher Sean Burke during the first inning of Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Astros shortstop Jeremy Pe\u00f1a (3) rounds the bases after hitting a solo home run off Chicago White Sox starting pitcher Sean Burke during the first inning of Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Astros starting pitcher AJ Blubaugh (69) throws against the Chicago White Sox during the first inning of Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Astros starting pitcher AJ Blubaugh (69) throws against the Chicago White Sox during the first inning of Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Texans infielders Jeremy Pe\u00f1a, Nick Allen (20), Jose Altuve (27) and Christian Walker (8) break up a huddle during a pitching change in the first inning of Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Texans infielders Jeremy Pe\u00f1a, Nick Allen (20), Jose Altuve (27) and Christian Walker (8) break up a huddle during a pitching change in the first inning of Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Astros starting pitcher Hunter Brown walks off the field after he was lifted from the game during the first inning of Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series against the Chicago White Sox in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Astros starting pitcher Hunter Brown walks off the field after he was lifted from the game during the first inning of Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series against the Chicago White Sox in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Astros starting pitcher Hunter Brown walks back to the mound after giving up a run to the Chicago White Sox during the first inning of Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Astros starting pitcher Hunter Brown walks back to the mound after giving up a run to the Chicago White Sox during the first inning of Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Astros starting pitcher Hunter Brown wipes his brow as he pauses on the mound against the Chicago White Sox during the first inning of Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Astros starting pitcher Hunter Brown wipes his brow as he pauses on the mound against the Chicago White Sox during the first inning of Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Chicago White Sox third baseman Miguel Vargas (20) scores past Houston Astros catcher Yainer Diaz (21) after a ball thrown in from the outfield got past the Astros catcher during the first inning of Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Chicago White Sox third baseman Miguel Vargas (20) scores past Houston Astros catcher Yainer Diaz (21) after a ball thrown in from the outfield got past the Astros catcher during the first inning of Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Astros starting pitcher Hunter Brown (58) walks back to the mound after giving up a hit by Chicago White Sox third baseman Miguel Vargas during the first inning of Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Astros starting pitcher Hunter Brown (58) walks back to the mound after giving up a hit by Chicago White Sox third baseman Miguel Vargas during the first inning of Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Astros pitching coach Joshua Miller (36) talks to starter Hunter Brown during the first inning of Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series against the Chicago White Sox in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Astros pitching coach Joshua Miller (36) talks to starter Hunter Brown during the first inning of Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series against the Chicago White Sox in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Astros starting pitcher Hunter Brown pitches against the Chicago White Sox during the first inning of Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Astros starting pitcher Hunter Brown pitches against the Chicago White Sox during the first inning of Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Chicago White Sox left fielder Sam Antonacci (17) gestures to the dugout after hitting a couple off Houston Astros starting pitcher Hunter Brown during the first inning of Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Chicago White Sox left fielder Sam Antonacci (17) gestures to the dugout after hitting a couple off Houston Astros starting pitcher Hunter Brown during the first inning of Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Rap artist and entrepreneur Bun B reacts after throwing out the ceremonial first pitch before Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series against the Chicago White Sox in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Rap artist and entrepreneur Bun B reacts after throwing out the ceremonial first pitch before Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series against the Chicago White Sox in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Astros fans stand for the national anthem before Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series against the Chicago White Sox in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Astros fans stand for the national anthem before Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series against the Chicago White Sox in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Astros manager Joe Espada, right, stands for the national anthem before Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series against the Chicago White Sox in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Astros manager Joe Espada, right, stands for the national anthem before Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series against the Chicago White Sox in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"A Houston Astros fan makes his way to his seat before Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series against the Chicago White Sox in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>A Houston Astros fan makes his way to his seat before Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series against the Chicago White Sox in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Chicago White Sox fans cheer after Chase Meidroth\u2019s 3-run home run off Houston Astros pitcher Bryan Abreu in the sixth inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Chicago White Sox fans cheer after Chase Meidroth\u2019s 3-run home run off Houston Astros pitcher Bryan Abreu in the sixth inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"The Chicago White Sox bullpen cheer in front of Houston Astros left fielder Yordan Alvarez after Chase Meidroth\u2019s 3-run home run off in the sixth inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>The Chicago White Sox bullpen cheer in front of Houston Astros left fielder Yordan Alvarez after Chase Meidroth\u2019s 3-run home run off in the sixth inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"The Chicago White Sox bullpen cheer in front of Houston Astros left fielder Yordan Alvarez after Chase Meidroth\u2019s 3-run home run off in the sixth inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>The Chicago White Sox bullpen cheer in front of Houston Astros left fielder Yordan Alvarez after Chase Meidroth\u2019s 3-run home run off in the sixth inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Astros Jose Altuve (27) reacts after popping out with the bases loaded to end the fifth inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Astros Jose Altuve (27) reacts after popping out with the bases loaded to end the fifth inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Astros Jose Altuve (27) reacts after popping out with the bases loaded to end the fifth inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Astros Jose Altuve (27) reacts after popping out with the bases loaded to end the fifth inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston fans cheer as Jose Altuve steps up to the plate with the bases loaded in the fifth inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston fans cheer as Jose Altuve steps up to the plate with the bases loaded in the fifth inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Astros Jeremy Pe\u00f1a (3) hits a single in the fifth inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Astros Jeremy Pe\u00f1a (3) hits a single in the fifth inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Astros Nick Allen (20) tries to get down a bunt in the fifth inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Astros Nick Allen (20) tries to get down a bunt in the fifth inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Astros Cam Smith (11) gets hit by a pitch in the fifth inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Astros Cam Smith (11) gets hit by a pitch in the fifth inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Astros Jose Altuve (27) reacts after hitting a solo home run in the fourth inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Astros Jose Altuve (27) reacts after hitting a solo home run in the fourth inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Astros Jose Altuve (27) reacts after hitting a solo home run in the fourth inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Astros Jose Altuve (27) reacts after hitting a solo home run in the fourth inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston fans cheer after Jose Altuve\u2019s solo home run in the fourth inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston fans cheer after Jose Altuve\u2019s solo home run in the fourth inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston fans cheer after Jose Altuve\u2019s solo home run in the fourth inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston fans cheer after Jose Altuve\u2019s solo home run in the fourth inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Astros pitcher Peter Lambert (38) reacts after getting Chicago White Sox Sam Antonacci to ground out to end the top of the fourth inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Astros pitcher Peter Lambert (38) reacts after getting Chicago White Sox Sam Antonacci to ground out to end the top of the fourth inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Astros pitcher Peter Lambert (38) reacts after getting Chicago White Sox Sam Antonacci to ground out to end the top of the fourth inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Astros pitcher Peter Lambert (38) reacts after getting Chicago White Sox Sam Antonacci to ground out to end the top of the fourth inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Astros pitcher Peter Lambert (38) reacts a missed pitch against Chicago White Sox Sam Antonacci in the fourth inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Astros pitcher Peter Lambert (38) reacts a missed pitch against Chicago White Sox Sam Antonacci in the fourth inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Chicago White Sox catcher Kyle Teel (8) nearly collides with Houston Astros designated hitter Isaac Paredes going after a ground ball in the third inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Chicago White Sox catcher Kyle Teel (8) nearly collides with Houston Astros designated hitter Isaac Paredes going after a ground ball in the third inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Chicago White Sox catcher Kyle Teel (8) nearly collides with Houston Astros designated hitter Isaac Paredes going after a ground ball in the third inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Chicago White Sox catcher Kyle Teel (8) nearly collides with Houston Astros designated hitter Isaac Paredes going after a ground ball in the third inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Astros Yordan Alvarez (44) reacts after striking out in the third inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Astros Yordan Alvarez (44) reacts after striking out in the third inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Astros Cam Smith (11) reacts after hitting a solo home run in the second inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Astros Cam Smith (11) reacts after hitting a solo home run in the second inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Astros manager Joe Espada (19) is seen before Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Astros manager Joe Espada (19) is seen before Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Astros Jose Altuve (27) hits a single in the first inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Astros Jose Altuve (27) hits a single in the first inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Astros Yordan Alvarez (44) reacts after striking out in the first inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Astros Yordan Alvarez (44) reacts after striking out in the first inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Astros Jeremy Pe\u00f1a (3) reacts after hitting a solo home run off Chicago White Sox starting pitcher Sean Burke in the first inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Astros Jeremy Pe\u00f1a (3) reacts after hitting a solo home run off Chicago White Sox starting pitcher Sean Burke in the first inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Astros fans cheer after Jeremy Pe\u00f1a (3) reacts after hitting a solo home run off Chicago White Sox starting pitcher Sean Burke in the first inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Astros fans cheer after Jeremy Pe\u00f1a (3) reacts after hitting a solo home run off Chicago White Sox starting pitcher Sean Burke in the first inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Astros pitcher AJ Blubaugh (69) delivers in the first inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Astros pitcher AJ Blubaugh (69) delivers in the first inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Astros third baseman Nick Allen, left, visits with first baseman Christian Walker, second baseman Jose Altuve and shortstop Jeremy Pe\u00f1a after starting pitcher Hunter Brown is pulled in the first inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Astros third baseman Nick Allen, left, visits with first baseman Christian Walker, second baseman Jose Altuve and shortstop Jeremy Pe\u00f1a after starting pitcher Hunter Brown is pulled in the first inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Astros Joe Espada (19) walks back to the dugout after pulling starting pitcher Hunter Brown in the first inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Astros Joe Espada (19) walks back to the dugout after pulling starting pitcher Hunter Brown in the first inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Astros starting pitcher Hunter Brown (58) walks back to the dugout after being pulled in the first inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Astros starting pitcher Hunter Brown (58) walks back to the dugout after being pulled in the first inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Astros left fielder Yordan Alvarez (44) fields a single by Chicago White Sox Chase Meidroth in the first inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Astros left fielder Yordan Alvarez (44) fields a single by Chicago White Sox Chase Meidroth in the first inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Astros starting pitcher Hunter Brown reacts after a throwing error by center fielder Lucas Spence allowed two runs to score in the first inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Astros starting pitcher Hunter Brown reacts after a throwing error by center fielder Lucas Spence allowed two runs to score in the first inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Astros starting pitcher Hunter Brown, left, throw to catcher Yainer Diaz after a throwing error by center fielder Lucas Spence allowed two runs to score in the first inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Astros starting pitcher Hunter Brown, left, throw to catcher Yainer Diaz after a throwing error by center fielder Lucas Spence allowed two runs to score in the first inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Astros starting pitcher Hunter Brown, left, throw to catcher Yainer Diaz after a throwing error by center fielder Lucas Spence allowed two runs to score in the first inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Astros starting pitcher Hunter Brown, left, throw to catcher Yainer Diaz after a throwing error by center fielder Lucas Spence allowed two runs to score in the first inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Astros third baseman Nick Allen (20) look to throw after misfielding a ground ball by Chicago White Sox Miguel Vargas for an error in the first inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Astros third baseman Nick Allen (20) look to throw after misfielding a ground ball by Chicago White Sox Miguel Vargas for an error in the first inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"The Houston Astros file out of the dugout after a 7-3 loss to the Chicago White Sox in Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>The Houston Astros file out of the dugout after a 7-3 loss to the Chicago White Sox in Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Chicago White Sox pitcher Erick Fedde (47) and catcher Kyle Teel (8) celebrate a 7-3 win, eliminating the Houston Astros from the  American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Chicago White Sox pitcher Erick Fedde (47) and catcher Kyle Teel (8) celebrate a 7-3 win, eliminating the Houston Astros from the  American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Astros manager Joe Espada watches the final outs from the dugout during the ninth inning of a 7-3 loss in Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Astros manager Joe Espada watches the final outs from the dugout during the ninth inning of a 7-3 loss in Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Astros pitcher Josh Hader (71) and catcher Yainer Diaz (21) walk off the field at the end of the eighth inning of Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Astros pitcher Josh Hader (71) and catcher Yainer Diaz (21) walk off the field at the end of the eighth inning of Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Astros pitcher Josh Hader pitches against the Chicago White Sox during the ninth inning of Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Astros pitcher Josh Hader pitches against the Chicago White Sox during the ninth inning of Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Astros second baseman Jose Altuve reacts after striking out during the eighth inning of Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series against the Chicago White Sox in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Astros second baseman Jose Altuve reacts after striking out during the eighth inning of Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series against the Chicago White Sox in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Astros manager Joe Espada stands at the top steps of the dugout as he looks on during the eighth inning of Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series against the Chicago White Sox in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Astros manager Joe Espada stands at the top steps of the dugout as he looks on during the eighth inning of Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series against the Chicago White Sox in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Astros right fielder Cam Smith (11) makes a catch in shallow right field, nearly colliding with second baseman Jose Altuve, on a pop up by Chicago White Sox right fielder Braden Montgomery during the eighth inning of Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Astros right fielder Cam Smith (11) makes a catch in shallow right field, nearly colliding with second baseman Jose Altuve, on a pop up by Chicago White Sox right fielder Braden Montgomery during the eighth inning of Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Astros manager Joe Espada lifts reliever Bryan Abreu (52) from the game during the eighth inning of Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series against the Chicago White Sox in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Astros manager Joe Espada lifts reliever Bryan Abreu (52) from the game during the eighth inning of Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series against the Chicago White Sox in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Chicago White Sox second baseman Chase Meidroth (10) rounds the bases after hitting a 3-run home run off Houston Astros reliever Bryan Abreu during the sixth inning of Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Chicago White Sox second baseman Chase Meidroth (10) rounds the bases after hitting a 3-run home run off Houston Astros reliever Bryan Abreu during the sixth inning of Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Chicago White Sox second baseman Chase Meidroth (10) rounds the bases after hitting a 3-run home run off Houston Astros reliever Bryan Abreu during the sixth inning of Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Chicago White Sox second baseman Chase Meidroth (10) rounds the bases after hitting a 3-run home run off Houston Astros reliever Bryan Abreu during the sixth inning of Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Astros pitcher Bryan Abreu watches Chicago White Sox second baseman Chase Meidroth round the bases after giving up a 3-run home run during the sixth inning of Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Astros pitcher Bryan Abreu watches Chicago White Sox second baseman Chase Meidroth round the bases after giving up a 3-run home run during the sixth inning of Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Chicago White Sox second baseman Chase Meidroth (10) and Houston Astros catcher Yainer Diaz (21) watch the flight of his 3-run home run during the sixth inning of Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Chicago White Sox second baseman Chase Meidroth (10) and Houston Astros catcher Yainer Diaz (21) watch the flight of his 3-run home run during the sixth inning of Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Astros Cam Smith (11) reacts after striking out for the final out in the ninth inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Astros Cam Smith (11) reacts after striking out for the final out in the ninth inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Astros pitcher Bryan Abreu reacts after giving up a 3-run home run by Chicago White Sox second baseman Chase Meidroth during the sixth inning of Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Astros pitcher Bryan Abreu reacts after giving up a 3-run home run by Chicago White Sox second baseman Chase Meidroth during the sixth inning of Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Astros pitcher Bryan Abreu pitches against the Chicago White Sox during the sixth inning of Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Astros pitcher Bryan Abreu pitches against the Chicago White Sox during the sixth inning of Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Texans infielders Jeremy Pe\u00f1a, Jose Altuve (27), Nick Allen (20), and Christian Walker (8) stand behind the mound during a pitching change during the sixth inning of Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Texans infielders Jeremy Pe\u00f1a, Jose Altuve (27), Nick Allen (20), and Christian Walker (8) stand behind the mound during a pitching change during the sixth inning of Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Astros manager Joe Espada (19) stands on the mound after taking Houston reliever Peter Lambert from the game against the Chicago White Sox during the sixth inning of Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Astros manager Joe Espada (19) stands on the mound after taking Houston reliever Peter Lambert from the game against the Chicago White Sox during the sixth inning of Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston fans cheer for Yordan Alvarez as he bats in the eighth inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston fans cheer for Yordan Alvarez as he bats in the eighth inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Astros pitcher Bryan Abreu (52) delivers in the eighth inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Astros pitcher Bryan Abreu (52) delivers in the eighth inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Chicago White Sox catcher Kyle Teel (8) and Houston Astros third baseman Isaac Paredes (15) get tangled up after Paredes struck out and tried to advance to first on the dropped third strike during the third inning of Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026. Paredes was called out at first.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Chicago White Sox catcher Kyle Teel (8) and Houston Astros third baseman Isaac Paredes (15) get tangled up after Paredes struck out and tried to advance to first on the dropped third strike during the third inning of Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026. Paredes was called out at first.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Astros Christian Walker (8) walks through the dugout after striking out to end the sixth inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Astros Christian Walker (8) walks through the dugout after striking out to end the sixth inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Astros Christian Walker (8) walks through the dugout after striking out to end the sixth inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Astros Christian Walker (8) walks through the dugout after striking out to end the sixth inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Astros Christian Walker (8) walks through the dugout after striking out to end the sixth inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Astros Christian Walker (8) walks through the dugout after striking out to end the sixth inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Astros Christian Walker (8) walks through the dugout after striking out to end the sixth inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Astros Christian Walker (8) walks through the dugout after striking out to end the sixth inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Astros Christian Walker (8) walks through the dugout after striking out to end the sixth inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Astros Christian Walker (8) walks through the dugout after striking out to end the sixth inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Astros Christian Walker (8) walks through the dugout after striking out to end the sixth inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Astros Christian Walker (8) walks through the dugout after striking out to end the sixth inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Astros shortstop Jeremy Pe\u00f1a (3) hits a solo home run off Chicago White Sox starting pitcher Sean Burke during the first inning of Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Astros shortstop Jeremy Pe\u00f1a (3) hits a solo home run off Chicago White Sox starting pitcher Sean Burke during the first inning of Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Astros manager Joe Espada (19) walks back to the dugout after taking starter Hunter Brown from the game during the first inning of Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series against the Chicago White Sox in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Astros manager Joe Espada (19) walks back to the dugout after taking starter Hunter Brown from the game during the first inning of Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series against the Chicago White Sox in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Astros starting pitcher Hunter Brown pauses on the mound just before he was lifted from the game during the first inning of Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series against the Chicago White Sox in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Astros starting pitcher Hunter Brown pauses on the mound just before he was lifted from the game during the first inning of Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series against the Chicago White Sox in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Chicago White Sox catcher Kyle Teel (8) and Chicago White Sox third baseman Miguel Vargas (20) celebrate after scoring as Houston Astros starting pitcher Hunter Brown (58) walks back to the mound during the first inning of Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Chicago White Sox catcher Kyle Teel (8) and Chicago White Sox third baseman Miguel Vargas (20) celebrate after scoring as Houston Astros starting pitcher Hunter Brown (58) walks back to the mound during the first inning of Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Astros Yordan Alvarez (44) is seen in the dugout after striking out during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Astros Yordan Alvarez (44) is seen in the dugout after striking out during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Astros starting pitcher Hunter Brown pitches against the Chicago White Sox during the first inning of Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Astros starting pitcher Hunter Brown pitches against the Chicago White Sox during the first inning of Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Rap artist and entrepreneur Bun B throws out the ceremonial first pitch before Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series against the Chicago White Sox in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Rap artist and entrepreneur Bun B throws out the ceremonial first pitch before Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series against the Chicago White Sox in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Third base, adorned with a playoff logo, is place on the field before Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Third base, adorned with a playoff logo, is place on the field before Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Astros third baseman Nick Allen, left, visits with first baseman Christian Walker, second baseman Jose Altuve and shortstop Jeremy Pe\u00f1a after starting pitcher Hunter Brown is pulled in the first inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Astros third baseman Nick Allen, left, visits with first baseman Christian Walker, second baseman Jose Altuve and shortstop Jeremy Pe\u00f1a after starting pitcher Hunter Brown is pulled in the first inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Astros starting pitcher Hunter Brown (58) reacts after giving up a line drive to Chicago White Sox Chase Meidroth for a single in the first inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Astros starting pitcher Hunter Brown (58) reacts after giving up a line drive to Chicago White Sox Chase Meidroth for a single in the first inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Astros starting pitcher Hunter Brown reacts after a throwing error by center fielder Lucas Spence allowed two runs to score in the first inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Astros starting pitcher Hunter Brown reacts after a throwing error by center fielder Lucas Spence allowed two runs to score in the first inning during Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Astros Nick Allen fields ground ball at third base before Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Astros Nick Allen fields ground ball at third base before Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Astros Nick Allen fields ground ball at third base before Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Astros Nick Allen fields ground ball at third base before Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Astros Christian Walker heads toward home plate to take batting practice before Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Astros Christian Walker heads toward home plate to take batting practice before Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Astros Christian Walker heads toward home plate to take batting practice before Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Astros Christian Walker heads toward home plate to take batting practice before Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Astros Yordan Alvarez (44) looks back after fielding ball in left field before Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Astros Yordan Alvarez (44) looks back after fielding ball in left field before Game 2 of an American League Wild Card Series in Houston, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<\/p>\n<p>Every final loss in the postseason comes with a clubhouse full of handshakes and hugs. There\u2019s whispers of\u00a0offseason plans and talks of reconvening in Florida for spring training in four months or so. As one of the only prominent free agents on the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.houstonchronicle.com\/sports\/astros\/\" data-link=\"native\" rel=\"noopener nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"\">Houston Astros<\/a> roster, Bryan Abreu had a different experience after the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.houstonchronicle.com\/sports\/astros\/article\/astros-joe-espada-future-al-wild-card-loss-22423855.php\" data-link=\"native\" rel=\"noopener nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"\">Chicago White Sox beat his team 7-3 in Game 2<\/a> to complete the wild-card series sweep the\u00a0Astros on Wednesday.<\/p>\n<p>It was a time of reflection on the parts of eight big-league seasons he\u2019s pitched for the Astros, including being a key bullpen piece for five different playoff runs, as he enters free agency for the first time and the uncertainty of whether\u00a0he\u2019ll be back with the team that signed him as a 16-year-old out of the Dominican Republic 13 years ago.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cI\u2019ll always be grateful to them for all the chances and opportunities they\u2019ve given to me,\u201d Abreu said. \u201cI was\u00a0able to grow as a person and a player and as a teammate, so I\u2019m really grateful for this organization.\u201d<\/p>\n<p class=\"uiTextSmall f aic jcc\">Article continues below this ad<\/p>\n<p>In what could have been Abreu\u2019s final outing in an Astros&#8217; uniform, he got tagged for a big home run in a key situation. After the Astros had climbed back into Game 2, cutting the White Sox\u2019s four-run first-inning lead to 4-3, Abreu entered in the sixth inning with runners on first and second and nobody out.<\/p>\n<p>White Sox manager Will Venable pulled a shrewd move by having Chase Meidroth, the first batter Abreu faced, square around to bunt, drawing the infield in, only for Meidroth to pull his bat back and Chicago execute a double steal to put both runners in scoring position. From there, Meidroth\u00a0turned hero. The second baseman, who was 0-for-2 with two strikeouts against Abreu during the regular season, worked a 3-1 count before Abreu chose to throw him one of his best pitches. However, the usually nasty slider, hung up over the middle of the plate and Meidroth mashed it over the visitors bullpen at Daikin Park to give his team an insurmountable 7-3 edge.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cI was looking for something middle up,\u201d Meidroth said. \u201cHe\u2019s had my number all year, really good fastball, so I got something middle up and I was able to cash in for the team.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Over the past two seasons, Abreu has thrown his slider 1,062 times and given up just seven home runs with opponents hitting .206 against one of his favorite pitches. This one wasn\u2019t his best, though.<\/p>\n<p class=\"uiTextSmall f aic jcc\">Article continues below this ad<\/p>\n<p>\u201cProbably the only thing I can say is I just missed the location,\u201d he said. \u201cBut, I got beat with one of my best pitches, my slider, so I have to give him some credit as well.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>In his three years as manager, Joe Espada frequently turned to Abreu to get his team out of jams, and that\u2019s what he was thinking when he turned to him again in such a key moment in Game 2.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cIt looked like that slider stayed kind of in the middle of the plate,\u201d\u00a0Espada said. \u201cBut with the game on the line, that\u2019s the guy you want out there. He\u2019s been remarkable.\u201d\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>Working mostly as a setup man in front of Ryan Pressly and then Josh Hader, Abreu\u2019s 383 career relief appearances ranks third in franchise history behind only Dave Smith (562) and Billy Wagner (464). Barring a rough 2021, Abreu was good ever since he was first called up in 2019, but he\u2019ll best be remembered for <a href=\"https:\/\/www.houstonchronicle.com\/texas-sports-nation\/astros\/article\/Houston-Astros-Bryan-Abreu-World-Series-17540112.php\" data-link=\"native\" rel=\"noopener nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"\">his performance in the 2022 postseason<\/a>. As the Astros rode a dominant bullpen to their second World Series title, Abreu made four scoreless appearances, giving up just one hit and striking out nine, in five winnings against the Phillies. He also combined with Cristian Javier, Rafael Montero and Pressly for the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.houstonchronicle.com\/texas-sports-nation\/astros\/article\/Houston-Astros-no-hitter-Javier-World-Series-Game-17554324.php\" data-link=\"native\" rel=\"noopener nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"\">combined no-hitter in Game 5 of that World Series<\/a>.\u00a0He pitched in 10 of the Astros&#8217; 13 playoff games that year, throwing 11 \u2153 shutout innings and\u00a0striking out 19.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cHe\u2019s gotten big outs for so many years, playoffs, World Series. Incredible,\u201d Espada said. \u201cI know he\u2019s going into his free agent year and he\u2019s one of those guys that you want to have in your &#8216;pen.\u201d<\/p>\n<p class=\"uiTextSmall f aic jcc\">Article continues below this ad<\/p>\n<p>Even with free agency brought up to him not even an hour after the last out of the Astros&#8217; season had been recorded, Abreu said that wasn\u2019t something he ever thought about on the mound.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cI always think, &#8216;Go out there and give everything for the team. Go out there and compete, try to help, enjoy the moment,&#8217;\u201d he said. \u201cI never thought about that this could be this last one.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>And it may not be. The Astros face an uncertain future as they enter the offseason without a general manager, but the 29-year-old says he\u2019s definitely open to signing a new contract with the only team he\u2019s known since he was a teenager.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cOf course, why not?\u201d Abreu said. \u201cWe always have the doors open. We have a lot of friends, teammates, family. I\u2019ve spent my whole career with this team.\u201d<\/p>\n<p class=\"uiTextSmall f aic jcc\">Article continues below this ad<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"Houston Astros pitcher Bryan Abreu (52) is seen in the sixth inning during Game 2 of an American&hellip;\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":452980,"comment_status":"","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[7],"tags":[56,58,57],"class_list":["post-452979","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","category-houston","tag-houston","tag-houston-headlines","tag-houston-news"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/452979","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=452979"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/452979\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/452980"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=452979"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=452979"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=452979"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}