diamond day

Lords of the rings: Houston Astros level up with World Series Championship bling, Lyle Lovett, and Paul Wall

After a star-studded Opening Day that saw Mark Wahlberg, Megan Thee Stallion, Cody Johnson and more, the Houston Astros returned to Minute Maid Park on Friday, March 31 for Game 2 of a 4-game home stand against the Chicago White Sox — and to load up on jewelry.

In a memorable ceremony, Astros players and staff received their 2022 World Series Championship rings. Owner Jim Crane and wife Whitney kicked off the event by poignantly exchanging rings with each, then handed out the massive Jostens rings that boast 624 diamonds and 55 orange and blue sapphires for a total of more than 15 carats. Charismatic manager Dusty Baker Jr., led off, finally receiving the first-ever championship ring of his illustrious career.

Our world champs donned the regal rings and posed for pics before legendary country crooner — and Klein native — Lyle Lovett sang the National Anthem and former Astros great Jason Castro — now retired — threw out the first pitch. People's Champ and always gloriously grilled hometown rapper Paul Wall handled the Play Ball call.

A magical hometown moment belonged to new Astros outfielder Corey Julks, a native of Friendswood who played at the University of Houston. Julks' family was in the stands as the designated hitter recored his first hit for the team. Another fan favorite, Kyle Tucker, blasted his first home run of the season. Key batting from slugger Yordan Alvarez and David Hensley sealed a 6 -3 win for the 'Stros.

Fans who want to score 2022 World Series Championship jewelry from Jostens — included 200 coveted, limited edition rings, can find them online.

--- Additional reporting by Marco Torres/@MarcoFromHouston

Photo by Marco Torres/MarcoFromHouston

this week's hot headlines

Houston suburb's rapid growth and 4 more popular stories

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Editor's note: It's time to look back at the top Houston news of the week. We begin with a Houston neighborhood's surprise status as America's fast growing city. Plus, a Houston speakeasy gets international recognition, a cowboy-inspired eatery claims a prime location in Lazybrook/Timbergrove, a Tastemaker Award-winning chef has opened a new cafe, and one of favorite burger places has made a major change. Get the details on our most popular stories of the week below, and then check out our guide to the best things to do this weekend.

1. Surprise Houston neighbor was No. 1 fastest-growing U.S. city in the last decade. It led the nation with an astonishing 1,082 percent increase in population from 2014 to 2023.

2. Houston speakeasy ranks No. 59 on 100 best bars list for North America. It's the only bar in Houston to make the prestigious list.

3 Cowboy-inspired, family-friendly restaurant rides into prime inner loop space. The new restaurant's outdoor patio will have a playground, lots of TVs, and a stage for live music.

4 Successful pop-up chef opens a new all-day cafe and bakery in the Heights. After years of selling pastries at farmers market, chef Jane Wild has a permanent home.

5 Cult favorite Houston burger joint adds new co-owner to power future growth. The most immediate changes will be opening on Monday and adding dinner service on Friday and Saturday.