Altuve Homer, Valdez Shutout Lead Astros Past Cubs 2-0

Sunday, June 29th, 2025

Jose Altuve hit a two-run homer and Framber Valdez tossed six shutout innings, and the Houston Astros beat the Chicago Cubs 2-0.

Altuve’s 13th home run of the season broke a scoreless tie in the fifth inning. It was his first extra base hit in 34 at bats and the Astros' only extra base hit of the game.

Valdez (9-4) struck out six while allowing five hits and two walks. Only one man reached third base against him. He exited with two on and nobody out in the seventh, but Bryan Abreu replaced him and retired Michael Busch, Vidal Bruján and Ian Happ to work out of trouble.

Abreu pitched a 1-2-3 eighth inning. He struck out four of the six men he faced.

Josh Hader retired the side in order in the ninth inning to convert on his franchise record 23rd straight save opportunity to start the season.

Jameson Taillon (7-6) matched zeroes with Valdez until Altuve’s home run on his 107th and final pitch of his outing. He struck out four while giving up five hits and one walk over 4 2/3 innings.

The bullpen trio of Ryan Brasier, Ryan Pressly and Brad Keller held the Astros to two hits over 3 1/3 innings.

Key Moment

Altuve’s fifth inning, two-run homer to break the scoreless tie.

Key Stat

The Astros are unbeaten in their last 11 series, dating back to May 22, going 9-0-2 in that span.

Up Next

The Cubs open a three-game series against the Guardians on Tuesday with LHP Matthew Boyd (7-3 2.65 ERA) against RHP Gavin Williams (5-3 3.68 ERA).

The Astros open a three-game series at the Rockies on Tuesday with LHP Colton Gordon (3-1 3.98 ERA) against RHP Chase Dollander (2-8 6.06 EA).

In summary

The Houston Astros defeated the Chicago Cubs 2-0 thanks to a decisive two-run home run by Jose Altuve in the fifth inning and stellar pitching performances. Framber Valdez earned the win with six shutout innings, supported by effective relief from Bryan Abreu and Josh Hader, who secured a franchise-record 23rd consecutive save. Cubs starter Jameson Taillon pitched well but was ultimately defeated by Altuve's hit. The Astros' victory extended their impressive streak of 11 consecutive series without a loss. Both teams are scheduled to begin new series on Tuesday, with the Cubs facing the Guardians and the Astros traveling to play the Rockies.

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