The Houston Astros moved into a tie atop the AL West standings by beating the Seattle Mariners 3-0

In just one month, the Houston Astros overcame a 10-game deficit to clinch first place in the AL West. Hunter Brown pitched six innings, allowed four hits, but struggled through tough times. Yainer Diaz’s two-run single was key in their 3-0 win over the Seattle Mariners on Friday night.

Houston manager Joe Espada was proud of his team’s resilience, highlighting their tireless effort and belief despite earlier struggles in the season.

The Astros entered June 18 with a 7-under .500 record but have turned things around dramatically, going 18-6 in their last 24 games. They took advantage of a game-tying inning against Seattle’s Luis Castillo to move up the standings.

Meanwhile, the Mariners, who once held a 10-game lead, have since gone 8-16.

They also struggled offensively against Houston, scoring three points or less in 15 of their last 24 games.

Despite Brown’s initial challenges, he came through with crucial outs, including a bases-loaded escape in the third inning. Seattle manager Scott Servais acknowledged the offensive problems and emphasized the team’s efforts to find solutions.

Brown finished with six innings pitched, striking out five and walking three. Relief pitchers Bryan Abreu and Ryan Pressly held the Mariners scoreless in the seventh and eighth innings, while Josh Hader earned his 19th save in the ninth.