HOUSTON — The Houston Astros are heading to their fifth straight American League Championship Series. And for the second of those five years, it’s against the Boston Red Sox.
The first two games of the best-of-seven series will be here in Houston, while games 3 and 4 will be at Fenway. If there’s not a sweep, Game 5 will also be at Fenway and the series returns to Houston for a Game 6 and 7, if necessary.
First pitch Friday will be at 7:07 p.m. under a closed Minute Maid roof. Former Astros’ outfielder Josh Reddick is tossing out the ceremonial first pitch, with Houston wrestling icon Booker T giving the ‘Play Ball’ call. Presentation of the colors will be from the Joint Services Color Guard.
Game 2 will be Saturday, also be at Minute Maid Park. First pitch will be at 3:20 p.m. American Christian pop-rock and R&B star Tauren Wells will sing the national anthem. Astros third-base coach Gary Pettis will toss out the first pitch and former NFL, UT and Madison High School quarterback Vince Young will give the ‘Play Ball’ call. Fans at Game 2 will also get a rally towel. The roof will again be closed.
Get tickets to Game 1 and 2
Tickets are still available online at Astros.com/postseason or by phone at 1-877-9ASTROS.
Astros Street Fest
Fans can get ready to cheer on the Astros before the games at Astros Street Fest. Street Fest starts three hours before game time and fans will need a ticket to take part. Fans can enjoy live music, food trucks, inflatable games and more. You can learn more at Astros.com/StreetFest.
Red Sox vs. Astros pitching matchup
The Astros will send Frambler Valdez to the mount in Game 1. He’ll be opposite Chris Sale for the Red Sox. Sale was 5-1 with a 3.15 ERA. Valdez was 11-6 with a 3.14 ERA.
Astros Game 1 weather
KHOU 11 Meteorologist Tim Pandajis is tracking a cold front on the way to Houston that should arrive during the game. It'll be warm and humid as fans go in, then crisp and refreshing as you leave. Full forecast here.
American League Championship Series schedule
Game 1: Friday, Oct. 15 at Minute Maid Park; 7:07 p.m.
Game 2: Saturday, Oct. 16, at Minute Maid Park; 3:20 p.m.
Game 3: Monday, Oct. 18, at Fenway Park; 7:07 p.m.
Game 4: Tuesday, Oct. 19, at Fenway Park; time TBD
Game 5 (if necessary): Wednesday, Oct. 20, at Fenway Park, time TBD
Game 6 (if necessary): Friday, Oct. 22, at Minute Maid Park; time TBD
Game 7 (if necessary): Saturday, Oct. 23, at Minute Maid Park; time TBD
Getting to Minute Maid Park
There are plenty of surface lots and parking garages in the area. You can find the best one by downloading the Park Whiz mobile app. It will show you how much each lot costs, and it also lets you book a space in advance. Another app that does the same thing is called Park Houston.
You can also take the train to the game! METRO rail purple line riders should exit at the Convention District station, then walk two blocks north to the ballpark. Keep in mind though, the trains share lanes with street traffic, so getting home could take longer.
If you prefer to leave the driving to someone else, Minute Maid has a rideshare pickup and drop-off zone located just outside the center field gate on Crawford Street between Preston Street and Congress Avenue.
Road closures around Minute Maid Park
Houston Police Department confirmed it will be enforcing the following road closures during the Astros home games at Minute Maid Stadium. They said closures could begin as early as 3 p.m. due to pre-game festivities.
- Crawford Street between Texas and Congress will be closed for emergency vehicles only.
- Congress Street between Hamilton and Crawford will be restricted to only two lanes.
- Texas Street between Crawford and Hamilton will be restricted to only two lanes.
- Texas Street between La Branch and Hamilton will be closed completely during and after the game.
- Preston Street between La Branch and Crawford will be closed completely during and after the game.
Heavy traffic is expected around and in the areas neighboring the stadium. HPD asks drivers to please remain patient.
Be safe!
If you see something, say something!
Houston Police Department and its public safety partners, including Harris County Sheriff's Office and METRO police, will be monitoring fans throughout the downtown area.
However it's important to be vigilant, whether you're at Minute Maid, at a nearby bar or other watch party.
HPD is also reminding party goers and game attendees to drink responsibly. Never drink and drive, and don't get into a vehicle with a driver who has been drinking.