Sat Mar 28 23:00:00 UTC 2026: ### Astros Face Angels in Game 3 After Slow Start to Season

The Story:

The Houston Astros, currently trailing the Los Angeles Angels 0-2, are set to face off against their divisional rivals in the third game of a four-game opening series at Daikin Park tonight, March 28th. RHP Cristian Javier will make his first start of the season for the Astros, returning to the rotation after recovering from Tommy John surgery. He will be opposed by RHP Reid Detmers of the Angels. The Astros are looking to turn the tide after a disappointing start to the season against a team they have historically dominated.

Key Points:

  • Game: Houston Astros (0-2) vs. Los Angeles Angels (2-0)
  • Pitching Matchup: Cristian Javier (Astros) vs. Reid Detmers (Angels)
  • Cristian Javier’s Return: Javier returns to the rotation full-time after undergoing Tommy John surgery, posting a 2-4 record with a 4.52 ERA in 37.0 innings after his return in August 2025.
  • Reid Detmers’ Role: Detmers has been with the Angels since 2021, fluctuating between the rotation and the bullpen, with his best season in 2022 (7-6, 3.77 ERA).
  • Historical Performance: The Astros are 138-84 all-time against the Angels and have won the season series against them every full season since 2015.
  • Peter Lambert Re-Signed: RHP Peter Lambert has been re-signed to a minor league contract and assigned to Triple A Sugar Land.
  • Game Time/Location: 6:15 p.m. CST at Daikin Park, Houston, TX.

Key Takeaways:

  • Cristian Javier’s performance is crucial for the Astros as he returns from a significant injury.
  • The Astros’ historical dominance over the Angels is being tested early in the season.
  • The Astros need to capitalize on their home-field advantage to avoid falling further behind in the series.
  • Re-signing Peter Lambert provides additional pitching depth for the Astros organization.

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