The atmosphere at Daikin Park was charged with emotion on Monday with the return of two emblematic figures. Carlos Correa, after a transfer that brought him back to the Houston Astros, and Alex Bregman, who visited the field for the first time as a player for the Boston Red Sox.
The opening game of the three-game series, which saw Houston prevail with a score of 7-6, was marked by special moments for both players.
Bregman was honored with a pre-game video that celebrated his achievements with the team. “It was a great moment, I tried to enjoy it to the fullest,” Bregman commented. “My manager told me to enjoy it, and I really did. It was a special moment.”The image of Correa with the phrase “Welcome home” on the giant stadium screen generated a strong ovation. Correa, visibly moved, took off his helmet in a sign of gratitude. “I felt chills and almost cried,” Correa confessed.
After hitting a two-run homer, the home crowd booed him. Correa, with a smile, said: “I loved it, I expected them to do it.”
Correa contributed to Houston’s victory with a run-scoring single.
Bregman, selected by the Astros in 2015, played nine seasons in Houston, participating in eight postseasons, including seven American League Championship Series, four World Series appearances, and two titles. He was an All-Star twice and won a Gold Glove last season.
Bregman was surprised by Correa’s return: “He’s a great player, a leader, a great teammate. It’s always difficult to compete against him, but we will give our best.”
Correa, who waived his no-trade clause to return to Houston, has performed outstandingly since his arrival, batting .405 with 15 hits, including two home runs and six RBIs.
Correa described his return as something surreal: “It’s a second chance and I won’t waste it.”
The position change to third base has revitalized Correa: “I feel fresher in my legs.”
Bregman trusts Correa’s success in his new position: “He has an incredible arm and will make a great transition.”
Bregman recalled the championships and the city’s resilience as the most memorable of his time in Houston.
Correa highlights the joy of reuniting with his friend and teammate, José Altuve: “I missed him a lot.” Altuve shares his enthusiasm: “I’m very excited that he’s back.”
