MLB Opening Day: Astros 4, Rangers 1 (FINAL)

ARLINGTON, TX — The Houston Astros were up to their usual tricks Thursday on Opening Day at Globe Life Park. George Springer crashed a leadoff home run, Jake Marisnick hit a solo shot and Justin Verlander looked very sharp on the mound in the Astros' 4-1 win over the Texas Rangers.

Springer, the 2017 World Series MVP, collected his 100th career home run on the Springer Dinger. It was the first time in Major League history that a lead off home run to start the season was slugged by the defending World Series champion.

The Astros had six hits and the Rangers didn't score until a passed ball with two outs in the bottom of the ninth inning.

Astros starter Justin Verlander gave up no runs and allowed just four hits (all singles) and struck out five in six innings of work. Chris Devenski pitched a 1-2-3 seventh inning in relief.

Here's the Astros Opening Day lineup.

The Astros and Rangers meet again on Friday at 7:05 p.m. Dallas Keuchel will be the starting pitcher for Houston.

Top image: George Springer (4) of the Houston Astros celebrates after a home run in the first inning of the Opening Day baseball game against the Texas Rangers at Globe Life Park in Arlington on March 29, 2018 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Richard Rodriguez/Getty Images)