2018 – Houston opens their first title defense with a 4-1 win over the Rangers in Arlington. George Springer led off the game with a home run, just as he did the year before. Justin Verlander tossed six shutout innings for the victory. Before the game, a moment of silence was held in memory of former Astros All-Star Rusty Staub who passed away that morning at the age of 73.
2018 – Houston opens their first title defense with a 4-1 win over the Rangers in Arlington. George Springer led off the game with a home run, just as he did the year before. Justin Verlander tossed six shutout innings for the victory. Before the game, a moment of silence was held in memory of former Astros All-Star Rusty Staub who passed away that morning at the age of 73.