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.