World Series Game 5: Astros beat Braves 9-5 to avoid elimination

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Facing a 3-1 series deficit leading into Game 5 of the World Series, the Houston Astros avoided elimination with a 9-5 win over the Atlanta Braves on Sunday night at Truist Park in Atlanta.

The Astros overcame Braves outfielder Adam Duvall’s grand slam in the first inning to stay alive, bouncing back with three runs in the fifth inning and and earning the win to force Game 6 in the championship series.

Game 6 of the best-of-seven series is set for Tuesday night at Minute Maid Park in Houston. No team has clinched the World Series at home since the 2013 Boston Red Sox; and for the Astros to accomplish the feat, they must win twice at Minute Maid Park. The last MLB club to overcome a 3-1 deficit in the World Series was the Chicago Cubs against the Cleveland Indians in 2016.

Astros manager Dusty Baker said rookie Luis Garcia likely will start on three days’ rest for the Astros in Game 6. The Braves are expected to start left-hander Max Fried, who would be fully rested for the matchup.

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