## Altuve's Grand Slam Powers Astros to 9-1 Victory Over Nationals

**Houston Cruises Past Washington Behind Career Night From Second Baseman**

HOUSTON - Jose Altuve ignited the Houston Astros offense with a career-high four hits, including a three-run homer, leading them to a commanding 9-1 victory over the Washington Nationals on Wednesday. This was Altuve's second four-hit game of the season and the 41st of his career, extending a franchise record.

Altuve wasn't alone in the offensive explosion. Cooper Hummel added a two-run homer, and Yainer Díaz contributed a three-run shot as the AL West leaders secured their second consecutive win after ending a five-game losing streak on Tuesday night.

Rookie Ryan Gusto (7-4) shined on the mound for Houston, allowing only four hits and one run over six innings. He bounced back from giving up a season-high eight runs in his previous start against Oakland.  

In the second inning, with two runners on base and two outs, Altuve launched a changeup from MacKenzie Gore (4-11) into the Crawford Boxes, putting Houston ahead 4-1. 

Mauricio Dubón's single in the sixth inning sparked another rally. Hummel followed with his third homer of the season, chasing Gore from the game.  The tension escalated when Washington interim manager Miguel Cairo was ejected after a heated exchange with home plate umpire Ryan Additon following Hummel's homer.

Altuve continued his impressive night by collecting his third single before Díaz capped off the scoring with a three-run homer to left-center, extending Houston's lead to 9-1. Gore surrendered eight hits and six runs in 5 1/3 innings pitched.

The Astros offense came alive after struggling during their five-game losing streak, combining for 16 runs in their last two victories.  

With his three-run homer, Altuve's 727th extra-base hit tied him with Lance Berkman for third-most in franchise history. They trail only Hall of Famers Craig Biggio (1,014) and Jeff Bagwell (969).


Both teams will enjoy a day off on Thursday before Washington hosts Milwaukee on Friday night and Houston opens a series at Boston.  


## Altuve's Grand Slam Powers Astros to 9-1 Victory Over Nationals

**Houston Cruises Past Washington Behind Career Night From Second Baseman**

HOUSTON - Jose 

#Ap sports previews and recaps

Jose Altuve's four-hit game powers Astros to 9-1 win over Nationals

#Ap sports previews and recaps

Jose Altuve&#39;s four-hit game powers Astros to 9-1 win over Nationals

Jose Altuve's four-hit game powers Astros to 9-1 win over Nationals