Altuve’s Emotional Outfield Debut, Smith’s Sweet Start, and Hader’s Ice-Cold Finish Fuel Astros’ Opening Day Win
Houston, Texas
A standing ovation, a box of donuts, and a game-ending strikeout—Opening Day in Houston had everything. From Jose Altuve’s emotional transition to left field to top prospect Cam Smith’s unforgettable first MLB hit, the Astros kicked off their 2025 campaign in dramatic fashion, edging out the Mets 3-1 in a tension-packed showdown.
The nine-time All-Star Altuve, the oldest player on the Astros roster, ran out to his new position in left field to deafening cheers at Daikin Park. After 12 years of controlling second base, the 35-year-old embraced a new challenge, immediately making an impact with two crucial catches. “I wasn’t expecting that, but that’s amazing,” Altuve said, soaking in the moment.
Meanwhile, the youngest Astro, Cam Smith, had a pregame ritual of his own—showing up to the clubhouse with three dozen glazed donuts. “They all liked them, so that’s a good thing,” he joked. But it was his first career at-bat that sent the crowd into a frenzy. Smith wasted no time, ripping a first-pitch single to right field, etching his name into Houston’s history with his first big-league hit.
On the mound, Framber Valdez was his usual dominant self. The All-Star lefty carved through the Mets’ lineup with seven scoreless innings, allowing only two walks and four strikeouts. Valdez, who leads the Majors in seven-inning outings since 2020, controlled the game with his signature poise. “I’m not scared of any hitter out there,” he said.
Houston’s offense did just enough, cashing in runs on a Jake Meyers fielder’s choice and a Yainer Diaz single in the third inning— the only hit of the game with runners in scoring position. But all eyes were on the ninth inning, when closer Josh Hader turned a smooth finish into a nail-biter.
After loading the bases with no outs, Hader had the Houston faithful holding their breath. He gave up a sac fly to Francisco Lindor before stepping into a showdown with Mets superstar Juan Soto, the $765 million man. The count ran full. The crowd roared. Then—slider, down and away. Swing and a miss. Game over. Career save No. 200 for Hader.
“He got me on that one,” Soto admitted, still stunned. The Mets’ blockbuster acquisition, brought in to change the franchise’s fortunes, was left shaking his head as Astros fans celebrated. The moment perfectly capped a night where Houston’s veterans, rookies, and stars all played their parts in a thrilling Opening Day victory.
