Yordan Alvarez Powers Astros with Grand Slam and Two-Run Homer in Explosive First Inning

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — In a stunning display of power, Yordan Alvarez launched a grand slam and a two-run homer in the opening inning for the Houston Astros during their game against the Kansas City Royals on Friday night. The left-handed hitter made his mark early, driving in two runs with a homer to the opposite field before hitting a two-out blast to center that cleared the bases, resulting in an impressive six RBIs for Alvarez in a nine-run first inning.

Alvarez, who leads the American League in home runs, matched Philadelphia's Kyle Schwarber for the Major League Baseball lead at 24 homers with his two towering shots in the inning. The 28-year-old designated hitter, originally from Cuba, was honored as the American League Rookie of the Year in 2019. He has also earned three All-Star selections and was named the Most Valuable Player of the AL Championship Series in 2021, contributing significantly to the Astros' World Series victory the following year.