Astros' Victory: Aledmys Díaz Returns, Fans' Heartwarming Gesture Highlight Series Against Athletics

The Houston Astros made a significant roster move ahead of their series against the Oakland Athletics . Aledmys Diaz returned to the team , replacing Grae Kessinger on the major league roster . Diaz , a former All - Star and utility player , rejoined the Astros after signing a minor - league deal following his release by the Athletics . He previously spent four seasons with the Astros , including their 2022 World Championship season.

Diaz 's return to Houston came at the expense of David Hensley , who was designated for assignment . Hensley , a 28 - year - old infielder , played a key role in the Astros ' 2022 World Series run , particularly in the American League Division Series . He spent the current season with the Sugar Land Space Cowboys after playing 46 games with the Astros over two seasons.

In a heartwarming gesture , a Seattle Mariners fan , Amy Franz , returned Yordan Alvarez 's historic home run ball from his first MLB cycle . Alvarez , Diaz 's teammate , achieved the cycle by hitting a single , home run , triple , and double in a game against the Mariners . Franz , who caught the home run ball , reached out to the Astros and Mariners on social media to ensure Alvarez received the ball , as she believed it held more value to him than to her.

Alvarez later met with Franz and expressed his gratitude by giving her a signed ball . The exchange between the fan and the player showcased the camaraderie and sportsmanship in baseball , even between rival teams . The Astros and their fans commended Franz for her gesture , highlighting the mutual respect among baseball enthusiasts.

The Astros , now tied for the American League West lead with the Athletics , are gearing up for a crucial series . Diaz 's addition to the roster provides depth and experience to the team as they aim to secure a playoff spot . With key players like Alvarez and Diaz contributing to the team 's success , the Astros look poised for another deep postseason run . As the regular season winds down , every game becomes crucial in the race for the playoffs.