Astros set for Stage 2
Springer’s rockets help boost champs back into ALCS
CLEVELAND — As his teammates sprayed each other with champagne and beer, Astros ace Justin Verlander stayed clear of the fray and foam while enjoying a cigar.
This wasn’t the time to get soaked. Bigger parties lie ahead.
The Astros are back in an October orbit.
The defending World Series champions advanced to the AL Championship Series for the second straight year — with surprising ease — by completing a division-round sweep of the Indians on Monday with an 11-3 lashing in Game 3 helped by two key throwing errors from Trevor Bauer, who came on in relief for the Indians.
“No one takes anything for granted,” Verlander said. “That’s the DNA of the guys in this clubhouse. This team has a propensity to do big things in big spots. This is an atmosphere that breeds winning.
“We have the most complete team in baseball.”
Marwin Gonzalez hit a two-run double off Bauer in a three-run seventh inning, and the Astros scored 10 runs in their final three times at bat to turn a series that was supposed to be competitive into a complete rout.
“We’re the reigning world champs, and we really have a good ability to show up for the day,” manager A.J. Hinch said. “So proud of our guys. As you can see, our guys are pretty hungry to advance.”
The Astros moved to the ALCS on-deck circle, where they await the Red Sox-Yankees winner for a shot to play for another championship.
George Springer homered twice, Carlos Correa belted a three-run homer for his first hit of the postseason and the bullpen combined for four scoreless innings, including six straight outs by winner Collin McHugh.
For the Indians, another postseason ended earlier than planned. Baseball’s longest World Series championship drought will reach a 71st anniversary.
The Indians hit just .144 in the series, were outscored 21-6 and have lost six straight playoff games.
“We’ve got to go home now, before we’re ready to,” manager Terry Francona said. “That hurts. It always stings.”