Struggles Continue for Lyles in Loss to Blue Jays

Jordan Lyles again struggled to pitch in today’s loss against the Blue Jays. Lyles started the game with a strikeout but it was pretty much down hill from there. The Astros offense did a good enough job amassing 6 runs on 13 hits, but Lyles couldn’t keep the Blue Jays off the scoreboard, as the Astros lost 10-6.

After the strikeout, Lyles’ spring troubles continued as he immediately gave up a solo shot to Melky Cabrera. Lyles gave up another run in the 2nd, then two runs in both the 3rd and 4th innings before he was relieved. Lyles’ final line in 3 2/3 IP was 10 hits, 6 runs, 2 Ks, and he also gave up 2 home runs today. The other home run was hit by Jose Bautista. It was a no-doubt two-run shot in the third inning. After the game, Lyles said “This is the best I’ve felt at spring training. Just the numbers aren’t there for me right now. I’m not overly worried about that.”

Though Lyles continues to struggle, the Astros had a good offensive performance today. Jason Castro continued his hot-hitting with a double and a two-run opposite field home run. That was his team leading fifth home run of the spring. Castro is hitting .462 this spring, and may be on the verge of a breakout season. The other home run came from Brandon Barnes who hit his fourth of the spring. Barnes is hitting .333 this spring, and has made his case to be on the 25-man roster. Jose Altuve also continued his hot spring with a 3-4 day. Altuve is hitting .356 and has not missed a beat since last season.

The Astros will look for a better pitching performance tomorrow when they face the Mets at 5:05 Central.