Things got hot quickly between the Boston Red Sox and Houston Astros in Game 2 of the ALCS on Saturday, thanks to J.D. Martinez and his stunning first-inning grand slam.
In the top of the first with Luis Garcia on the mound for the Astros — who lead the series, 1-0 — Red Sox first baseman Kyle Schwarber doubled to right field. Then a little later, third baseman Rafael Devers and left fielder Alex Verdugo walked.
And with the bases loaded super early in this postseason matchup, 34-year-old slugger Martinez stepped up to the plate.
After taking the first ball from Garcia, Martinez then swung on a 93-mile an hour four-seam fastball and homered 363 feet for a huge grand slam and a 4-0 first-inning lead for the Red Sox.
JUST DINGERS!
A grand slam for @JDMartinez28! pic.twitter.com/fXYwKRJLKE
— MLB (@MLB) October 16, 2021
Just listen to the sound Martinez’s bat made as he blew that ball to right field. Beautiful.
BRING OUT THE 🛒 pic.twitter.com/tgjvVWLwrO
— FOX Sports: MLB (@MLBONFOX) October 16, 2021
The top of the first ended not long after, but the early damage was done. And if you tuned into the game a little late, you missed an incredible moment for the Red Sox.
