Astros get a win behind a strong outing by Norris

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This was a great win for the young Houston Astros as they provided just enough offense for Bud Norris to get the Astros their fourth win of the season. Bud Norris had by far his best outing of the 2011 season, going six innings, not allowing a run and striking out seven as the Astros beat the Padres 1-0 tonight. On the other side of the ball, Dustin Morseley pitched well for the Padres holding the Astros to only one run in 6 2/3 innings of work but gave up a costly single to Michael Bourn that brought Humberto Quintero home for the lone run of the night.

The Astros pitching was lights out tonight as Norris, Abad, Melancon and Lyon held the Padres to only three hits and striking out ten. This is an important win for the Astros as it will hopefully build confidence for them and they can win these close games. This was also a good night for Brandon Lyon, who was able to get his second save of the season, to build confidence as he only needed 8 pitches to close out the ninth inning.

The Astros got big production from the bottom part of the order as Matt Downs and Humberto Quintero were responsible for four of the seven hits. Matt Downs has been on a tear since replacing Chris Johnson in the lineup going 5 for 7 with one home run and three RBI. The team will have some tough decisions to make on Angel Sanchez and Matt Downs when Jeff Keppinger and Clint Barmes return from injuries.

The Astros are back at it again tomorrow as J.A. Happ takes on Aaron Harang for an 8:05 PM (ET) start.