Astros defeat Mariners 2-1 in extra innings

Victor Caratini delivered a decisive RBI single in the top of the 12th inning, securing a 2-1 victory for the Houston Astros over the Seattle Mariners. Caratini, who entered as a pinch hitter, broke a tie that lasted from the eighth inning after the Astros had previously taken the lead with an RBI triple from rookie Cam Smith in the seventh. The game remained scoreless until Seattle's Luke Raley tied it in the bottom of the seventh. Houston's starting pitcher Framber Valdez struck out eight batters over six innings, while the bullpen combined for 11 strikeouts and allowed only one hit throughout the game. Despite difficulties with runners in scoring position, the Astros aim to win the series in the finale, with Hunter Brown set to pitch against Luis F. Castillo for Seattle. The game showcased Houston's resilience and depth in pitching as they look to improve their performance in upcoming games.