James Harden brought his beard to Minute Maid Park in support of Dallas Keuchel
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With Dallas Keuchel starting for the Astros in Game 2 of the ALDS against the Red Sox on Friday afternoon, there was no doubt which bearded athlete was on the minds of Houstonians.
While fans throughout the park donned their Keuchel-inspired beards, one particular fan had no need for the novelty item. That's right: Houston Rockets guard James Harden was in the house.
While Harden was the only Rocket confirmed to be in attendance for Friday's game, the team's General Manager -- Daryl Morey -- threw the weight of the entire organization behind the hometown team:
The Beard was treated to an impressive offensive display from the Astros, but it was perhaps the performance of his bearded counterpart on the mound that resonated most. Keuchel struck out seven Red Sox and gave up only one run in 5 2/3 innings pitched.
After the game, Keuchel discussed the influence Harden's presence had on his performance:
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There's power in the beard. That's why we're told to fear it.