In a moment of desperate need, the Houston Astros turned to backup Cooper Hummel to salvage a 2-2 tie against the Washington Nationals. Hummel's unexpected entry in a crucial fifth inning came as manager Joe Espada sought solutions amid a wave of injuries impacting the team's roster.

Initially, the left-handed Jacob Melton was set to bat, but after a walk and a single, Hummel was called upon to pinch-hit. Facing right-hander Andry Lara, who had previously troubled him in the minors, Hummel's preparations included a quick review of video footage. This tactical shift proved fruitful as Hummel grounded a first-pitch sinker up the middle, scoring a crucial run that helped propel the Astros to a 7-4 victory, breaking a five-game losing streak.