The Houston Astros' four-year American League Championship Series streak came to an abrupt end on Wednesday as the Detroit Tigers pulled off a stunning upset in the best-of-three Wild Card Series.
In a remarkable turn of events, the Houston Astros, who have dominated the American League Championship Series since 2016, were sent packing in the Wild Card Series by the red-hot Detroit Tigers. The Tigers completed a two-game sweep with a 5-2 victory in Game 2 at Minute Maid Park, dashing the Astros' hopes of extending their ALCS streak to five.
The Astros took an early lead in Wednesday's contest, but the Tigers fought back to tie the game in the seventh inning. After Kyle Tucker grounded into a double play to end Houston's rally, Detroit took advantage of a wild pitch from Ryan Pressly and a two-out walk to load the bases.
Astros Upset by Red-Hot Tigers, Ending ALCS Streak
With Astros manager Joe Espada bringing in closer Josh Hader, the Tigers' Andy Ibanez delivered the decisive blow, ripping a line drive down the left-field line to clear the bases and give Detroit a 5-2 lead. The Tigers' bullpen held on for the final three innings to secure the upset victory.
The Tigers' triumph was a testament to their late-season surge. After being 11 games back of a postseason spot in August, Detroit finished the season with a 31-13 record in their final 44 games to clinch the sixth and final AL postseason berth.
Astros Upset by Red-Hot Tigers, Ending ALCS Streak
Houston had entered the series as heavy favorites, boasting one of the strongest back ends of a bullpen in baseball. However, Pressly and Hader, who normally provide unyielding stability, faltered on Wednesday, allowing three runs that proved fatal.
The Astros' elimination marks the end of a remarkable championship series streak, which was the second longest in MLB history behind only the Atlanta Braves' eight consecutive appearances in the 1990s.
Astros Upset by Red-Hot Tigers, Ending ALCS Streak
For Detroit, the victory was a sweet redemption for manager A.J. Hinch, who was fired by the Astros in 2019 after their sign-stealing scandal came to light. The Tigers will now face the AL Central rival Cleveland Guardians in the ALDS, a matchup that should provide another intriguing chapter in this year's unpredictable playoffs.
As for the Astros, the loss raises questions about the future of veteran infielder Alex Bregman, who is set to become a free agent after the season. Bregman's impressive performance in recent years has been overshadowed by a disappointing playoff performance, and his departure could signal a period of transition for the franchise.
