Late in an afternoon of emotional swings, one lingered over all for Joe Espada. The Houston Astros manager had just watched his bullpen blow two late leads against the Angels and a last gasp from his surging offense fall short.

Alvarez and Tucker homered as part of their respective four-hit games in the Astros' 10-4 victory over the Los Angeles Angels on Saturday. That win not only set the table for Houston (85-70) to complete a four-game series sweep on Sunday afternoon but also reduced the Astros' magic number to win the American League West to three games.

Kyle Tucker’s reintroduction to the Houston Astros lineup commenced in the cleanup spot. Manager Joe Espada slotted Tucker there for five of the right-hander’s first eight games following a three-month absence,

While one veteran continued to trend in the wrong direction relative to postseason roster construction, Astros right fielder Kyle Tucker took a crucial step toward showing he might be in prime condition should Houston qualify for the playoffs.