Astros lose series finale to the Cubs

Wandy didn’t have the magic tonight as Chicago jumped out to an early lead and a 5 run sixth inning wasn’t enough for Houston to make a comeback in a 9-5 loss. Wandy gave up five runs over the first two innings but settled down and didn’t give up another run and finished the night with 5.0 innings pitched, striking out four batters, and allowing two walks. Wandy now falls to 0-2 on the season and it looks like it will be another year of early season struggled for Wandy Rodriguez.

Wilton Lopez was uncharacteristically off tonight as well giving up three runs, two of which were earned, in only 1/3 inning of work. Mark Melancon had a strong showing tonight in his one inning of work, getting two strikeouts and still not allowing a run this season. Carlos Zambrano, the starting pitcher for the Cubs, did not have a great showing either giving up 5 runs in his 5 2/3 innings of work and striking out four. He gave up one home run tonight to Matt Downs, who replaced Chris Johnson in the starting lineup tonight.

Matt Downs was the only Astro tonight to have multiple hits, adding a double to the home run and had two RBI. Angel Sanchez had another hit tonight to extend his hitting streak to five games and has hit safely in 8 of the last 9 games now. The Astros will need to have a short memory as they are back at it tomorrow as they welcome the San Diego Padres for a four game set.