Altuve and Javier lead Astros to 8–5 win at Rangers as Houston closes to 2–1 in ALCS

Houston Astros' Jose Altuve (27) hits a home run off Texas Rangers starting pitcher Max Scherzer, bottom, during the third inning in Game 3 of the baseball American League Championship Series in Arlington, Texas, on Oct. 18, 2023. Tony Gutierrez/AP Photo

ARLINGTON, Texas—Cristian Javier knew right away his fastball was working in Game 3 of the AL Championship Series. Then again, it’s October, when he always seems to be at his best for the Houston Astros.

“There’s not a better feeling than knowing that your teammates instill their confidence in you,” Javier said through his translator. “They expect good things in you and put their trust in you.”