The Houston Astros aim for a clean sweep against the struggling Colorado Rockies, who currently hold the worst record in the league. With Brandon Walter taking the mound for Houston, boasting a 3.34 ERA, the Astros are in a favorable position. Meanwhile, Kyle Freeland, with a dismal 5.56 ERA, will try to turn his fortunes around for the Rockies. The matchup not only reflects the Astros' recent success but also signifies a pivotal moment for Freeland as he battles to regain his form.

In addition to the on-field drama, Jose Altuve made headlines by surpassing Jeff Bagwell to become the second all-time leader in hits for the Astros. Hunter Brown celebrated a milestone as well, marking his 500th strikeout, while newcomer Shay Whitcomb hit his first major league home run against the Rockies. As the Astros prepare to face off against the Dodgers next, the stakes remain high for player performances.

Jose Altuve etched his name further into Houston Astros history with a two-run single that broke a tie in the sixth inning, leading the team to a 5-3 victory over the Colorado Rockies. This performance allowed Altuve to surpass Jeff Bagwell for second place on the franchise's all-time hits list, trailing only Craig Biggio. The Astros, winners of 16 of their last 20 games, showcased offensive prowess with contributions from rookie Shay Whitcomb, who hit his first major-league home run.

On the mound, Hunter Brown delivered another quality start, allowing just two runs over six innings, improving his record to 9-3 with a 1.82 ERA. Rockies hitters struggled to capitalize, going hitless in five at-bats with runners in scoring position, which ultimately hampered their performance. The Astros maintained their lead in the AL West, ensuring a solid position as they head into the season's second half.

The Houston Astros are adjusting their lineup following the injury of shortstop Jeremy Peña, who has been placed on the injured list due to a left rib fracture. In response, the team has called up infielder Shay Whitcomb from Triple-A Sugar Land. This marks Whitcomb's third stint with the Astros in recent weeks, although he has struggled at the plate in his previous seven games this season, failing to record a hit in nine at-bats.

Peña's injury, retroactive to June 28, means he could potentially return by July 8. With Peña sidelined, Mauricio Dubón has taken on the shortstop role, having started in the last two games against the Cubs. Dubón's versatility and prior performance could make him a valuable asset in Peña's absence.

The Houston Astros have reinstated outfielder Taylor Trammell from the injured list, adding a left-handed bat to their lineup, which has struggled against left-handed pitching this season. Trammell, who has been recovering from a right calf injury sustained earlier in spring training, brings experience after playing 126 career games in the majors and covers all outfield positions.

In a corresponding move, infielder Shay Whitcomb was optioned to Triple-A Sugar Land. Houston's outfield is currently dealing with injuries, missing key players like Yordan Alvarez and Chas McCormick. The Astros' general manager indicated that acquiring a left-handed hitter is a priority as the trade deadline approaches.

The Houston Astros have placed rookie outfielder Jacob Melton on the 10-day injured list due to a sprained right ankle sustained during a defensive play in Friday's victory against Minnesota. In his 11 games this season, the 24-year-old Melton posted a .241 batting average, including one triple and six RBIs.

In a roster shake-up, the Astros also optioned utility player Shay Whitcomb to Triple-A Sugar Land. To fill these roster spots, Houston brought in outfielder Cooper Hummel and infielder Luis Guillorme from Sugar Land. Furthermore, right-hander Spencer Arrighetti has been transferred to the 60-day injured list as he continues his recovery from a fractured thumb that occurred during batting practice earlier this month.