PHILADELPHIA — Cam Smith's ninth-inning home run powered the Houston Astros to a 2-1 win over the Philadelphia Phillies at Citizens Bank Park. Smith connected late to deliver the decisive run in a tightly contested, low-scoring matchup. The blast in the final frame proved to be the winner as Houston held on for the one-run victory.
Houston starter Cristian Javier controlled the game from the outset, not allowing a hit through his first four innings. His early dominance kept Philadelphia off the scoreboard and set the tone for a pitchers' duel. The Phillies were limited throughout the afternoon, managing only three hits for the game as Houston's staff kept traffic off the bases.
With offense at a premium, Smith's late homer stood as the difference. The Astros found the breakthrough in the ninth after both teams struggled to generate sustained rallies, and the one-run edge held to secure the 2-1 final. The result highlighted Houston's pitching efficiency and timely power against a Phillies lineup held to minimal production.