WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — Cristian Javier looked sharp in his final Grapefruit League start Sunday, but a pair of late runs lifted the Cardinals to a 3-2 win over the Astros at CACTI Park of the Palm Beaches.
Taylor Trammell gave Houston an early lead with a solo home run to right-center in the second inning, his second of the spring and another timely statement with roster decisions looming Wednesday. The Astros couldn’t build on it, however, as Jordan Walker answered with a solo shot in the third to tie the game.
St. Louis took the lead for good in the sixth when Nathan Church doubled home Brody Moore. José Fermín added an insurance run with an RBI single in the seventh to make it 3-1. Houston answered in the bottom half when Jake Meyers doubled and scored on a Cavan Biggio groundout, but that was as close as it would get.
Javier was the story on the mound. The right-hander worked five innings, allowing four hits and one earned run while walking two and striking out two. After returning from Tommy John surgery last season, he heads into Opening Day looking healthy and in control. His 1.69 spring ERA offers a strong indication he’s ready for Thursday’s opener against the Los Angeles Angels.
AJ Blubaugh closed the game with two clean innings, striking out one and walking none, an encouraging showing for a pitcher competing for a bullpen role.
Trammell finished 1 for 3 with his home run and now has eight RBI this spring. With one exhibition game remaining Tuesday against the Space Cowboys, his case for a roster spot continues to strengthen.
Like free Astros gear? See the full Astros 2026 promotions schedule.