Astros Rally Early But Lose Late

To say that the game tonight was an offensive showcase would be an understatement. A total of 21 runs were scored but the Astros came out on the losing end for the eighth game in a row as they fell to the Reds 12-9. At one point, our hometown nine were down 8-2 but rallied to take the lead at 9-8. Wandy Rodriguez would allow one more run but in the end, it was the bullpen that allowed the winning runs to score.

The game began with back to back doubles by Zack Cozart and Drew Stubbs before Joey Votto would launch a two run homer to the right field seats. The Astros came back with a two run shot by Jed Lowrie in the bottom of the first. The Reds would plate five runs in the second inning en route to their win. The newest Astro, Fernando Martinez was robbed of a three run homer when the umpire ruled it a double. After they reviewed the play, it stood as a double. Brad Mills did absolutely nothing about this atrocious call. Every starter had at least one hit. Jose Altuve had three hits, Jed Lowrie had two (including his team leading ninth home run) and J.D. Martinez had two hits and three RBI as he continues to battle back from the slump he was in last month.

As far as our pitching goes, it was terrible. Wandy gave up 9R/7ER, however, his ERA is still very nice at 3.14. Fernando Rodriguez was saddled with the loss (his sixth of the year), as he gave up the go ahead run in the sixth inning. David Carpenter and Brett Myers were both solid in their 1 IP each of relief work, allowing no runs, however, Brandon Lyon allowed three hits and two runs (earned) in his one inning of relief. Lately, it seems like when we can hit, we’re not pitching well and when we’re pitching well, we can’t hit. Jordan Lyles will take the mound tomorrow as the Astros look to salvage the series and try to win the final game.

EDIT: Shortly after the game, it was announced that Matt Downs was optioned to AAA, Oklahoma City as Jordan Lyles was recalled. No word yet on if this is a permanent move for both Lyles and Downs.