Extra innings unkind to Astros

Former Astro Hunter Pence hit two homeruns, including the game winner in the tenth inning of Tuesday’s 4-3 loss in Philadelphia. Ex-Phillie Brett Myers served up the game winner and the Astros dropped their fourth straight. Houston has lost all five of the extra-inning games they have been involved in this season.

This one looked to be a mismatch on paper and Astros fans were hoping for a rainout. The Astros offense has struggled against lefties and has been pitiful against everyone lately. That didn’t bode well with Cliff Lee on the mound for the Phils. Plus, Houston fans weren’t sure who would be on the mound for the Astros.

Jordan Lyles was called up to make the start and did an outstanding job. In six innings of work Lyles allowed three runs, but only one of them was earned. Lyles gave up six hits and a walk while striking out four. Lyles has pitched well in both of his starts for the Astros this season and has been superb at AAA Oklahoma City. Perhaps he will stay in the rotation this time around.

There were a few bright spots in the loss. Carlos Lee stayed hot with a couple of hits in the game. J.D. Martinez  also had a pair of hits to break out of a 1 for 32 slump. Brandon Lyon pitched two scoreless innings and lowered his ERA to 1.88 for the year. Fernando Abad didn’t allow a homer. In fact, he got two hitters out without giving up a run. The Astros came back from a 3-0 deficit, including two runs in the ninth to tie the game.

David Carpenter was optioned to AAA to open up a roster spot for Lyles. The Astros head home now for an eight-game homestand that starts with two against the Brewers. Bud Norris faces Randy Wolf in tomorrow’s opener.