Yainer Díaz launched his first career grand slam as part of a six-run fifth inning, and the Houston Astros erupted for a season-high in runs during a dominant 14-3 victory over the Los Angeles Angels on Friday night.
Díaz, who had entered the game with just one RBI on the season, finished with three hits and a career-best five RBIs. His blast in the fifth — his first homer of the year — turned a narrow Houston lead into a blowout and marked the Astros’ first grand slam since Jose Abreu’s last September.
The Angels led 2-1 in the top of the fifth after Kyren Paris doubled and scored on Jo Adell’s RBI single. But Houston responded in the bottom half, starting with a game-tying RBI single by Yordan Alvarez that slipped past a diving Tim Anderson. Christian Walker followed with another RBI single to give Houston the lead.
After Angels starter Jack Kochanowicz (1-1) walked Jeremy Peña to load the bases, he was replaced by Garrett McDaniels, who promptly gave up the grand slam to Díaz, sending the ball deep into the left-center concourse.
Díaz later added an RBI double as part of a four-run sixth for Houston, while rookie Cam Smith recorded his first career home run — a two-run shot in the eighth — to stretch the lead even further.
Astros starter Ronel Blanco (1-1) earned the win, giving up just four hits and two runs over five solid innings.
Mike Trout provided a lone highlight for the Angels with a towering solo homer in the fourth — his sixth of the season, matching his career-best total through 13 games. The Angels have now hit a franchise-record 19 home runs over a six-game span, surpassing the previous mark of 18 set in 2003.
Key Moment
Díaz’s grand slam in the fifth inning broke the game wide open and shifted momentum completely in Houston’s favor.
Key Stat
The Astros scored nine of their 14 runs with two outs, showcasing their relentless approach at the plate.
Up Next
Houston sends RHP Ryan Gusto to the mound on Saturday against Angels left-hander Tyler Anderson as the series continues.