Zach Cole sparked Houston’s offense on a wild stage, debuting with a first-pitch home run and driving in four as the Astros routed Atlanta 11-3 in a pennant-race backdrop. The rookie’s four-hit night vaulted him from Triple-A to the big leagues in days, giving Houston a much-needed spark after a long run of injuries. His teammates hailed the calm, confident approach that belied a rapid ascent, electrifying a lineup in need of a jolt.

The win kept Houston in a first-place tie with Seattle in the AL West, and Cole’s breakout showcased a lineup capable of elevating behind patient at-bats and power from multiple spots. The memory of his debut—423 feet, 114.3 mph exit, first HR on the first pitch—will linger as the Astros navigate down the stretch.

Houston's playoff push hinges on an offensive resurgence after a rough road swing. The Astros sit tied for first in the AL West with Seattle and hold a two-game edge for the final Wild Card with 15 games left. They open a three-game set at Atlanta against Hurston Waldrep before returning home to face Texas and Seattle, making each at-bat and bullpen decision critical for fantasy managers chasing late-season value.