Astros Slug Their Way to 2-1 Lead in ALDS Over Twins

It's almost like clockwork for this Houston Astros team.

Struggle at home to back themselves into a corner and then perform incredibly on the road to get out of a jam.

That's exactly what they did in Game 3 on Tuesday.

The Astros wasted no time in taking an early lead.

Jose Altuve got things started with yet another lead off single in the first inning. Three batters later, Kyle Tucker singled him home for the 1-0 lead.

The floodgates opened when Jose Abreu hit a three-run homer 442 feet one batter later and Houston never looked back.

It's something that this team has become accustomed to when on the road.

They have had an incredible year away from home, holding the third best record during the regular season and being a top-3 offensive team in opposing ballparks.

That was evident once again during their 9-1 victory in Game 3.

The Astros hit four home runs, including two by Abreu. Yordan Alvarez continued his tear by hitting his fourth homer of the series.

Houston's four star sluggers Altuve, Alvarez, Alex Bregman and Tucker combined to go 7-18 with two home runs and four RBI.

But while the offense will get the most attention, and rightfully so, their start Cristian Javier stepped up in a big way as well.

The right hander threw five innings scoreless innings, giving up only hit and striking out nine batters.

He's been a big time performer in the past for the Astros and shined again when needed most.

Now, Houston can take this momentum into Game 4 on Wednesday with a chance to advance to the NLCS for the seventh straight year.