The Astros had a nostalgic moment at Yankee Stadium. In a crucial game, Carlos Correa executed a run from second base alongside Jose Altuve, leading to a 5-3 victory over the Yankees in 10 innings.
While Correa was the first of the two to make a return to the Bronx with the Astros since 2021, Altuve remained the focal point of the jeers, evident in the crowd’s reaction. Fans greeted them knowing their connections to the infamous sign-stealing scandal from the 2017 World Series.
Altuve started strong, allowing Houston to gain the lead as the game progressed into extra innings.
Correa commented on the heightened pressure: “At this stage, it feels different. He often steps it up. I’ve seen it many times. If I were a fan, I’d try to keep it light, maybe like a spring training vibe.” Although Altuve faced loud boos during his name announcements, Correa’s reception was surprisingly calmer for most of the game.
“I didn’t think the boos were that intense,” Correa shared. “When I played for Minnesota, I felt they booed me more. I believe it’s because Altuve draws all the attention.”
During his time with the Twins, Correa certainly received his share of the spotlight, but the Yankees’ distaste seemed to hone in more on the Astros as a whole, especially after the team knocked them out in both 2017 and 2019. The Yankees have had little success, whether roster-wise or in their longstanding rivalry.
Yet, there’s something undeniably special about the reunion of 35-year-old Altuve with 30-year-old Correa. “It’s enjoyable to see them together,” remarked Gerrit Cole, who previously played for the Astros. “He understands the city and the team dynamics really well.”
Cole, who had moments with the Astros in 2018 and 2019 before joining the Yankees in a record deal, noted their close bond, saying, “He and Jose are best friends. Their group was really impressive.”
Some might argue it was a bit too impressive. The Astros won the World Series in 2022, taking out the Yankees along the way, and reached the ALCS the following year only to fall in the wild card round. Meanwhile, Correa’s postseason experience with the Twins was limited, having contributed minimally during that wild card matchup.
Coming off a preseason with average stats, Correa arrived that Friday with a recent surge—9-22 in his last games, boasting three extra-base hits within five outings.
