Jose Altuve error costs Astros after Manuel Margot 3-run homer (Video)

Jose Altuve’s costly first inning error gave the Rays a second chance they took advantage of

Don’t short-arm any throw, especially in the ALCS. Altuve ought to know that by now, but his lob over to Yuli Gurriel for what should’ve been the third out of the first inning hit the dirt, and the Houston first baseman couldn’t recover it on a hop. The result was an error that was eventually awarded to Altuve (after originally being given to Gurriel), and a Manuel Margot three-run home run.

The Astros were already reeling after losing Game 1 by just a run, and their one-run output in that contest won’t inspire confidence in their ability to overcome an early deficit.

Margot, meanwhile, had just one home run on the 60-game season, and that’s his first this postseason. Batting the former Padre fourth is an interesting lineup technique for Kevin Cash, as Margot’s limited power doesn’t limit his overall potential.

As for the Astros error, while Altuve will receive headlines for his flaw in the field, Gurriel still should’ve found a way to squeeze that ball. As a more than capable first baseman, Altuve’s lob didn’t pose much of a challenge. Yet, Gurriel couldn’t bail out his second baseman.