Philadelphia Phillies vs Houston Astros Game 2 of the World Series: reactions and takeaways
After a come-from-behind victory by the Philadelphia Phillies in Game 1, the Houston Astros bounced back in Game 2 to level the 2022 MLB World Series.
The Houston Astros leveled the best-of-seven World Series, 1-1, after a convincing win over the Philadelphia Phillies in Game 2. Just like in their first matchup, Astros started strong with a 5-0 lead, but this time they protected that margin and won 5-2.
Here are some takeaways from Houston’s victory.
Valuable Valdez
Lefty Framber Valdez had an unremarkable performance at the World Series last year, but he has more than made up for it this season. He has one of the deadliest curveballs in the league, striking out Bryce Harper with one. The 28-year-old allowed four hits and three walks, but destroyed the Phillies’ 4-5-6 hitters.
However, the internet was abuzz with insinuations after the game that Valdez used a sticky substance prior to pitching, an allegation which he denied.
Framber Valdez is a great example of why you never give up on a prospect.
— Michael Schwab (@michaelschwab13) October 30, 2022
He's an ace
Valdez is a really good pitcher. However…
— Jon Johnson (@jonjohnsonwip) October 30, 2022
switching gloves
changing cleats
rubbing palm
always wiping hands on hair, pants as he leaves mound
Strange things impossible not to notice. Not saying anything, but asking, WTH is going on?
Lots of chatter here about Framber Valdez appearing to wipe something off his hands before getting checked by the umpires tonight.
— Rob Tornoe (@RobTornoe) October 30, 2022
Here's a video after Valzez pitched the fifth inning. pic.twitter.com/Rk9WC05sI2
It seems like Framber Valdez is going to his right hand for a substance? #WorldSeries pic.twitter.com/ufIAM50D6Z
— Hard Rock Sportsbook (@HardRockSB) October 30, 2022
#Astros starter Framber Valdez was asked about the insinuations online that he was using a substance. "They shouldn't think anything bad about it...I everything out in the open, in plain sight."
— Daniel Gotera (@DTGoteraKHOU) October 30, 2022
(Translation follows his answer) pic.twitter.com/HSL5e9fFu6
Houston hitters makes history
Jose Altuve hit a double off Zack Wheeler’s first pitch, then Jeremy Pena achieved the same right after. Yordan Alvarez then delivered a double of his own in the second pitch. With this triple performance, the Astros are now the only team to start a World Series game with three consecutive extra-base hits.
We literally love Jose Altuve. pic.twitter.com/BYsulQWgQZ
— Houston Astros (@astros) October 24, 2022
Jeremy Peña is pure talent. #postseason pic.twitter.com/RjOVHVIchZ
— MLB (@MLB) October 22, 2022
October Yordan is awake again. pic.twitter.com/Sj3H86FUxv
— Jared Carrabis (@Jared_Carrabis) October 30, 2022
Rest may have not helped Wheeler
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The Phillies started Aaron Nola in Game 1, allowing Wheeler to get an extra day of rest. However, the 32-year-old did not have the best start in Game 2, giving up three extra-base hits in one inning for the fifth time in his career. It was the first time for Wheeler to have done this in the first inning.
Red flags everywhere in first inning for the Phillies, but the greatest concern might be Zack Wheeler sitting 96 mph with his fastball in first inning. It's been more 97-99 in first innings this postseason. A long season.
— Matt Gelb (@MattGelb) October 30, 2022
After two exciting games in Houston, the Astros and Phillies travel to Philadelphia to play the next three games of the World Series. Game 3 of the World Series will be at Citizens Bank Park this Monday, October 31 and is scheduled to start at 8 p.m. ET (7 p.m. CT and 5 p.m. PT).