Happ gets his fourth win as Astros top Nats 7-6

J.A. Happ won for the first time since May 14th and ended a personal seven game losing streak. It was not pretty by any means as he gave up five runs in 5.2 innings pitched but a four run fourth by the Astros gave him enough run support to get the win. Happ gave up two home runs, seven hits, four walks and only struck out three. Brad Mills used five relievers to get them the win, with Mark Melancon getting credited with the save. David Carpenter gave up his first run in the majors as a run scored on a double play ball hit by Wilson Ramos.

Tonight, Michael Bourn and Clint Barmes were the heavy hitters, accounting for six of the Astros’ seven runs. Barmes started the scoring in the second with a two run shot that brought home Carlos Lee and then added another RBI in the fourth. Then it was Michael Bourn’s turn as he hit a double that brought Barmes and Humberto Quintero home, which extended the Astros lead to 6-2. Bourn added the deciding run in the sixth with a single that brought Quintero home again.

Aside from Bourn and Barmes, Chris Johnson, Carlos Lee and Humberto Quintero added two hits each. It was a good win on a day fans saw the Astros trade away starting second baseman Jeff Keppinger for a couple of minor league pitchers. Don’t worry Astros’ fans as it looks like they will be calling up Jose Altuve tomorrow, who doesn’t know has been tearing up the minor leagues and I think will quickly become a fan favorite.

Brett Myers gets the ball tomorrow in the series finale and will look to help the Astros win their first series since their series with the LA Dodgers, about a month ago.