Nootbaar's Three-Run Homer Powers Cardinals Past Astros 4-1

Lars Nootbaar delivered a pivotal performance for the St. Louis Cardinals, hitting a three-run home run that led the team to a 4-1 victory over the Houston Astros and secured the series win. His homer, coming in the fifth inning off Astros pitcher Ronel Blanco, turned a 1-0 deficit into a 3-1 lead for the Cardinals. Nootbaar also drew two walks and continued a strong stretch, now batting .284 with three home runs, 10 RBI, and 12 runs in 17 games this season. The win marked the Cardinals' first home series triumph over the Astros since 2013 and capped a successful 4-2 homestand against playoff-caliber teams. Cardinals starter Steven Matz impressed in his first start of the season, allowing just one run over five innings, while Ryan Helsley earned his third save. The Cardinals' improved offensive approach, highlighted by leading the majors in three-run homers, has been a key factor in their early success.