James Paxton Dazzles In Game 5 Win As New York Forces Game 6 Back In Houston

In my preview yesterday for game five of the American League Championship Series I asked this question.

Can James Paxton help New York stay alive in the American League Championship Series against Justin Verlander and Houston?

The answer is yes. The Canadian born left-hander threw 112 pitches scattered four hits and four walks while striking out nine over six innings. “according to https://www.mlb.com/yankees/news/james-paxton-alcs-game-5-start-yankees

As for the New York offense,

They got their offense going against Houston starter Justin Verlander with DJ LeMahieu and Aaron Hicks both hitting home runs in the first inning. “according to https://www.mlb.com/yankees/news/james-paxton-alcs-game-5-start-yankees

While New York kept their season alive behind James Paxton, DJ LeMahieu and Aaron Hicks Houston meanwhile didn’t get to celebrate and punch their ticket to the World Series.

The Astros, whose only run in the first inning came on a wild pitch, had no answer for Paxton, who struck out nine and allowed four hits and four walks in six innings. They had the tying run at the plate in the seventh against reliever Zack Britton, but Michael Brantley hit into a fielder’s choice and Bregman flied out.”according to https://www.mlb.com/astros/news/astros-fall-short-in-alcs-game-5-clinch-attempt

The American League Championship Series now returns to Houston for Game 6 on Saturday where New York will look to force a game seven while Houston will get another crack at punching their ticket to the World Series.