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3d ago

deGrom Returns, Reaches 2,000 Strikeouts as Astros Routed and AL West Tightens

Short-term pitching availability is shifting momentum in the AL West, prompting teams to alter workloads and roster plans.

Aug 20, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; St. Louis Cardinals second baseman Bryan Torres (39) reacts after pinch runner Masyn Winn (0) and pinch hitter Jose Fermin (15) score on a fielding error hit by shortstop JJ Wetherholt (not pictured) in the ninth inning against the Cincinnati Reds at Great American Ball Park. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images
Aug 20, 2026; Houston, Texas, USA; Los Angeles Angels shortstop Zach Neto (9) hits a three-run home run against the Houston Astros during the fifth inning at Daikin Park. Mandatory Credit: Erik Williams-Imagn Images
Aug 20, 2026; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Guardians pitcher Gavin Williams (32) throws a pitch during the first inning against the San Francisco Giants at Progressive Field. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images
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Overview

  • Nationals rookie Cade Cavalli dominated the Rangers with 11 strikeouts and six scoreless innings the night before Texas' finale, highlighting how single starts are swinging short-term outcomes.
  • On Thursday, Jacob deGrom was cleared to start and delivered six one-hit innings with 10 strikeouts to reach 2,000 career strikeouts, marking a quick return after he left a prior start with right triceps fatigue.
  • The Los Angeles Angels pummeled the Houston Astros 18-3 on Thursday, led by Zach Neto’s five-hit night and a career-high seven RBIs that exposed Houston’s recent offensive struggles.
  • Houston’s loss and Texas’ result left the Astros with a one-game lead in the AL West, a margin that underlines how rotation inconsistency and slumps have tightened the division race.
  • Since the Aug. 3 trade deadline the Astros have gone 6-9 with repeated offensive droughts and spotty starting depth, a trend that could force more bullpen reliance and lineup adjustments in coming series.