MLB playoffs 2023: Rangers vs. Astros live updates, analysis

It’s elimination Monday in the championship series round of the 2023 MLB playoffs.

The Arizona Diamondbacks disrupted what could have been a double elimination day by triumphing over the Philadelphia Phillies with a 5-1 victory at Citizens Bank Park in Game 6. This win keeps the Diamondbacks alive and pushes the series to the ultimate decider, Game 7, which is often regarded as the most thrilling phrase in sports. Meanwhile, the Texas Rangers and Houston Astros are gearing up for their own Game 7 showdown in the American League Championship Series, with a ticket to the World Series up for grabs.

Stay up to date with the latest news from both Philadelphia and Houston as we provide live updates and analysis throughout the games, along with our insights once the final pitch is thrown. Furthermore, we’ve asked our expert ESPN MLB analysts covering these series to address the pivotal question for each team competing for a spot in the Fall Classic.

Jump to:
Live updates | Takeaways

Live updates

Takeaways

Diamondbacks 5, Phillies 1: The Diamondbacks, previously considered as underdogs, have defied the odds throughout the wild-card series, division series, and league championship series. They continued their impressive run on Monday night, convincingly defeating the Phillies 5-1 in Game 6 of the NLCS. Arizona displayed dominance in their performance, with Merrill Kelly delivering a brilliant five-inning pitching display. The Diamondbacks also showcased their power hitting by hitting home runs and executing successful base steals, completing four stolen bases. This loss marks the first time the Phillies have been defeated at Citizens Bank Park in seven games this month, and they urgently need to reverse this trend.

Game 7 is now on the horizon, which will be the first time in a full season since 2004 that both LCS games will go into a Game 7. The pitchers for the crucial matchup will be Arizona’s Brandon Pfaadt and Philadelphia’s Ranger Suarez, both of whom displayed brilliance in their Game 3 encounter. The game is set to commence at 8 p.m., and if the preceding six games are any indication, this series is poised for an unforgettable conclusion. — Jeff Passan