15 Clutch Hits That Defined José Altuve’s Career
From walk-offs to postseason bombs, these clutch hits helped turn José Altuve into a Houston Astros legend.
- Chris Graciano
- 4 min read
The most significant moments occurred when José Altuve delivered. Altuve, known for his tenacity and steadfast calmness, has a lengthy history of game-changing hits that have astounded opponents and fans. Here are 15 famous examples of how his bat altered the course of events and solidified his legacy.
1. Walk-Off Homer vs. Yankees – 2019 ALCS Game 6
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With the Astros tied and facing extra innings, Altuve crushed a walk-off two-run homer off Aroldis Chapman. The blast sent Houston to the World Series and shook Minute Maid Park.
2. Leadoff HR vs. Red Sox – 2017 ALDS Game 1
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Altuve set the tone early by smashing a first-inning homer off Chris Sale. He wasn’t done — he hit two more that night. The trio made him only the 10th player in history with three home runs in a postseason game.
3. Go-Ahead Double vs. Yankees – 2017 ALCS Game 2
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In a pitcher’s duel, Altuve lined a clutch double down the left-field line in the eighth. It broke a tie and led to the only run of the game. His timely hit helped Houston take a 2–0 series lead.
4. Walk-Off Single vs. Mariners – 2021 Regular Season
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Tied in the ninth, Altuve slapped a single up the middle to win it for Houston. The crowd erupted, and teammates mobbed him at second. His ability to stay calm and deliver when needed remained unmatched.
5. Grand Slam vs. Red Sox – 2022 Regular Season
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Trailing late, Altuve launched a grand slam that flipped the game on its head. It was a statement moment in a hard-fought series. His swing sparked the comeback and reminded fans of his danger at the plate.
6. Tiebreaking HR vs. Rays – 2020 ALCS Game 4
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Down 3–0 in the series, Altuve gave Houston life with a monster home run. The shot came in the first inning and set the tone. The Astros rallied for their first win in the series.
7. Game-Tying HR vs. Blue Jays – 2016
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Altuve crushed a game-tying homer in the ninth after Houston had trailed all day. It sparked a rally that led to a walk-off win in extras. His timing couldn’t have been better.
8. Leadoff HR vs. Yankees – 2022 ALCS Game 3
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Starting the game with a bang, Altuve took the first pitch deep into the left-field seats. It set the tone for a dominant Houston win. He delivered yet again under the pressure of the playoffs.
9. Two-Run Single vs. Dodgers – 2017 World Series Game 5
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In one of the wildest World Series games ever, Altuve’s two-run single tied things up in a seesaw battle. His plate discipline and power showed under the brightest lights.
10. Three-Hit Game vs. Yankees – 2021 ALDS
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Facing elimination, Altuve led the charge with three base hits and a run scored. His consistency rattled Yankee pitchers and kept Houston’s hopes alive.
11. 2000th Career Hit – 2023 Regular Season
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While not a clutch situation in terms of score, the moment carried emotional weight. Altuve joined an elite company in Astros history. The crowd gave a roaring ovation as he tipped his helmet.
12. Go-Ahead HR vs. Rangers – 2015 Regular Season
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Altuve took Texas deep in the eighth inning of a crucial divisional showdown. His blast broke a tie and propelled the Astros toward the playoffs.
13. RBI Double vs. A’s – 2019 Regular Season
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In a tight September matchup, Altuve delivered an RBI double to break the deadlock. His bat sparked a late-game surge and widened the Astros’ lead in the standings.
14. Game-Winning Hit vs. Angels – 2018
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With two outs in the ninth, Altuve lasered a line drive into the gap to walk it off. The Angels were stunned, and Minute Maid Park exploded.
15. Go-Ahead Homer vs. Braves – 2021 World Series Game 2
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After a Game 1 loss, Altuve crushed a go-ahead homer that sparked Houston’s comeback in the series. His playoff experience showed in his poise and timing.