Thu Jun 26 21:00:00 UTC 2025: ## Astros’ Lefties Dominate Phillies in Historic Shutout
**HOUSTON** – In a display of southpaw power, the Houston Astros blanked the Philadelphia Phillies 2-0 on Wednesday night at Daikin Park, showcasing a historic performance from their bullpen. Rookie left-handed starter Colton Gordon combined with four left-handed relievers – Steven Okert, Bennett Sousa, Bryan King, and Josh Hader – marking the first time in franchise history the Astros deployed five lefties in a single game.
The Astros’ left-handed contingent held the Phillies to just seven singles and zero walks, silencing the Philadelphia offense for their second consecutive shutout. The victory propelled Houston to a season-high 14 games over .500, extending their lead in the American League West to 5 1/2 games over the Seattle Mariners.
Manager Joe Espada, who inherited a bullpen stocked with left-handed arms, lauded the performance of his southpaws. “In today’s game, with the three-batter rule, you have to get righties and lefties out, and those guys have been really good for us the whole entire year,” Espada said.
The stellar performance was highlighted by Bryan King, who escaped a bases-loaded jam in the eighth inning by striking out Alec Bohm and retiring Nick Castellanos. Closer Josh Hader then secured the win with a clean ninth inning, recording his 21st save in 21 chances to start the season, tying a franchise record.
“We always joke around about how many lefties we got,” said Steven Okert. “It’s kind of funny when it works out that way.”
The Astros will look to complete the series sweep on Thursday, with ace right-hander Hunter Brown taking the mound.
First Piper 