Jose Altuve’s homer in 9th sends Astros to World Series

By Kristie Rieken The Associated Press

5 years ago

Houston Astros' Jose Altuve hits a double against the New York Yankees during the first inning ... — Houston Astros’ Jose Altuve hits a double against the New York Yankees during the first inning in Game 6 of baseball’s American League Championship Series Saturday, Oct. 19, 2019, in Houston.(AP Photo/Matt Slocum)

Houston Astros right fielder George Springer can’t gets glove on a two-run home run by New York Yankees’ DJ LeMahieu during the ninth inning in Game 6 of baseball’s American League Championship Series Saturday, Oct. 19, 2019, in Houston. (AP Photo/Eric Gay)

Houston Astros shortstop Carlos Correa celebrates after New York Yankees’ Gary Sanchez grounded into double play during the eighth inning in Game 6 of baseball’s American League Championship Series Saturday, Oct. 19, 2019, in Houston. (AP Photo/Eric Gay)

Houston Astros relief pitcher Roberto Osuna reacts after giving up a two-run home run to New York Yankees’ DJ LeMahieu during the ninth inning in Game 6 of baseball’s American League Championship Series Saturday, Oct. 19, 2019, in Houston. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)

HOUSTON — Jose Altuve hit a game-ending homer off Aroldis Chapman with two outs in the ninth inning and the Houston Astros outlasted the New York Yankees 6-4 Saturday night to advance to the World Series for the second time in three years.

In a bullpen game with a back-and-forth finish, DJ LeMahieu hit a tying, two-run shot off Astros closer Roberto Osuna in the top of the ninth. Altuve answered with a two-run drive to left-center, setting off a wild celebration at Minute Maid Park.

Astros ace Gerrit Cole was waiting to pitch a potential Game 7 in this AL Championship Series on Sunday. Instead, the postseason star — undefeated since May 22 — could be lined up for Game 1 at home against the NL champion Washington Nationals on Tuesday night.