After thrilling Game 1 win, what can Astros do for an encore?

Your daily sports update from the Houston Chronicle.

View in browser OCTOBER SALE: 6 MONTHS FOR 99¢! Access fall events, football and more local news. Subscribe Today. Good morning. Here are the top sports stories around Houston today: Photo: Karen Warren, Staff Photographer Extra meaningful Astros slugger Yordan Alvarez, whose walkoff homer won Game 1 of the ALDS for the Astros, said his parents' presence at Minute Maid Park, the culmination of a two-year process, made his moment supremely special.    Pitch to Yordan Alvarez? Why, it's pure folly. The 6-5 slugger is an absolute tower of power and, as Tuesday's walkoff home run illustrated, the most dangerous hitter the Astros have ever had, writes Brian T. Smith.   'I missed them' Rockets coach Stephen Silas was back at practice Wednesday after being sidelined by a second case of COVID.   Successful audition Jordan Akins impressed enough off the practice squad to be signed to the Texans' 53-man roster.   Plenty of unfinished business Marcus Sasser put on hold a professional career, and his stock could soar if he and the Cougars have the type of season many expect.   Best of Week 8 This week's intriguing matchups around the Houston area could shape the landscape of the postseason.   Greg Rajan Texas Sports Nation editor greg.rajan@chron.com Sponsored Content   Shopping Here are all of the Amazon devices on sale during the Prime Early Access Sale Amazon Prime Day might have passed back in July, but the Prime Early Access Sale is here.   Shopping Apple AirPods Pro are on sale for the first time during the Prime Early Access Sale Gone are the days of having to wear wired headphones and deal with them constantly getting tangled up and always being in the way.   OCTOBER SALE: 6 MONTHS FOR 99¢! Unlimited Digital Access Act Now No Commitment | Cancel Anytime Unsubscribe  |  Manage Preferences  |  Privacy Notice Houston Chronicle 4747 Southwest Freeway, Houston, TX 77027 © 2022 Hearst Communications