The Chicago Cubs opened their three-game series against the visiting Houston Astros with a convincing 7-2 victory on Tuesday, powered by impressive performances from Mike Tauchman and Cody Bellinger. Tauchman hit two home runs and drove in four runs, while Bellinger contributed a two-run homer. Jordan Wicks pitched a solid six innings for the Cubs, allowing only two runs on five hits. The Astros have now lost 10 of their past 13 games, scoring just six runs during their current three-game skid.
Grae Kessinger, a 26-year-old infielder for the Houston Astros, is carrying on a family legacy in baseball. His grandfather, Don Kessinger, was a shortstop for the Chicago Cubs for 11 seasons before becoming the baseball coach at Ole Miss. Grae’s father, Kevin, also played baseball for his father at Ole Miss and was drafted by the Cubs in the 22nd round in 1992. Grae was drafted by the Astros in the second round in 2019 and made his Major League debut in 2022. Despite facing limited playing time with the Astros, Grae remains focused on improving his defense and learning from his grandfather, who he calls his mentor and role model.
Ronny Garcia, a 24-year-old former Houston Astros pitching prospect, and his father were killed in a traffic accident in the Dominican Republic. Garcia had recently signed with the York Revolution after spending eight seasons in the Astros organization. Tributes poured in from teams and individuals, expressing condolences and highlighting his talent and character.
The Houston Astros are facing their worst start in seven years with a 7-16 record after losing nine of their last 12 games. They will look to turn things around in a three-game series against the Chicago Cubs, who are coming off a split with the Miami Marlins. The Astros have been held under four hits in two of their last three games, leading to concerns about their offense. First baseman Jose Abreu has struggled with a 59-at-bat hitless streak. The Cubs are expected to start left-hander Jordan Wicks, while the Astros will counter with right-hander J.P. France.
