These two Astros love to beat LA

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Today's starting lineup

Lance McCullers Jr. and Jose Altuve, two key figures in the Astros' World Series win in 2017, were back in Dodger Stadium and gave the LA faithful more to boo about in Houston's 18-1 win.

Please scroll down for the rest of this morning’s headlines.

Reid Laymance, Sports Editor

reid.laymance@houstonchronicle.com

Astros / MLB

Houston Astros starting pitcher Lance McCullers Jr. reacts after striking out Los Angeles Dodgers' Mookie Betts during the fifth inning of a baseball game in Los Angeles, Friday, July 4, 2025. (AP Photo/Kyusung Gong)

Photo by: Kyusung Gong, Associated Press

Lance McCullers Jr. and Jose Altuve remind Dodgers why they hate the Astros

Dodgers fans haven't forgotten loss to Astros in 2017 World Series and sign-stealing scandal but Houston's two veterans added to LA's woes.

Not again: This is the second time Dodgers broadcaster Orel Hershiser has slyly brought up the Astros' sign-stealing scandal during a game between the two teams. Read More
Astros 18, Dodgers 1: Isaac Paredes started the game with a homer and the Astros didn't let up in rout of Dodgers behind Lance McCullers Jr. Read More
Back in the system: Tayler Scott began the season with Astros but was designated for assignment in May. After time in Arizona organization, he's back on minor-league deal. Read More

Gold Cup

ST LOUIS, MISSOURI - JULY 2: Diego Luna #10 of the United States reacts after scoring his second goal against the Guatemala during the first half at Energizer Park on July 2, 2025 in St Louis, Missouri. (Photo by Jeff Le/Getty Images)

Photo by: Jeff Le, Getty Images

How Diego Luna became the rising star of the U.S.

Diego Luna’s rise from California to U.S. soccer star on display as he scores twice to send the U.S. to the Gold Cup final against Mexico.

Houston Texans linebacker Bryan Braman (50) celebrates his touchdown after his blocked punt during the second quarter of an NFL football game at Reliant Stadium, Sunday, Dec. 16, 2012, in Houston.

Photo by: Karen Warren, Houston Chronicle

Former Texans linebacker Bryan Braman battling rare form of cancer

Bryan Braman was a Houston Texans fan favorite for his wild style of play, including once losing his helmet and using his head to tackle a Titans punt returner.

Texas Tech's offensive line added a big piece with the commitment of Felix Ojo of Mansfield.

Photo by: John E. Moore III, Getty Images

Texas Tech wins recruiting battle for top lineman Felix Ojo

Felix Ojo of Mansfield Lake Ridge chooses the Red Raiders over the Longhorns, Buckeyes and Florida Gators.

One for Texas: John Turntine III, the No. 3 high school recruit in Texas according to 247Sports, announced Friday his commitment to UT football. Read More
Expectations: Marcel Reed steps in as Texas A&M’s starting quarterback, aiming to elevate the Aggies’ offense to top SEC rankings in 2025. Read More