Lucas Harrell (3-3, 4.09) vs Christian Friedrich (2-1, 5.09)
The Astros dropped their 5th in a row in a 13-5 blowout loss to the Colorado Rockies. Rockies outfielder Carlos Gonzalez homered 3 times to pace the Rockies offense. While the Astros did manage 5 runs, it wasn't nearly enough to overcome the Rockies high powered attack. The Astros now drop to 22-28 while the Rockies improve to 20-29.
*Lucas Harrell was not good at all, as indicated by his line. 5.0 IP / 10 H / 9 ER / 3 BB / 4 K. The bullpen was also very hittable, as Cruz, Cedeno and Carpenter each allowed a run in relief (with Cruz allowing 2 runs). Harrell drops to 4-4 on the year with a 4.71 ERA.
Observations:
*While overshadowed by the Rockies offensive outburst, the Astros offense actually had a pretty nice day - they managed 5 runs on 15 hits and a pair of walks, although they did strike out 8 times. Unfortunately it could have been much better, as the Astros only went 4 for 17 with runners in scoring position and left a total of 13 men on base.
*Snyder drove in 2 runs, while Maxwell, CJ and Harrell each drove in 1. Runs were scored by Maxwell (2), Altuve, Lowrie and JD.
*Chris Snyder struck out 3 times in 5 plate appearances, and walked once. He also had a double.
*Altuve had a nice 3 for 5 day at the plate from the 2 hole.
*Justin Maxwell had a bit of a mixed day - an error, but an outfield assist. A strikeout, but 2 hits, 2 runs and an RBI. All in all a pretty nice day for rightfielder however, and he has clearly earned himself more playing time as of late.
*Chris Johnson went 3 for 3 and improved his season average to .298.
*OBP for the top 4 Astros hitters tonight (including tonights results): Schafer (.335), Altuve (.357), Lowrie (.350), Lee (.352). The Astros are getting on base...we just need some run producers to bring them home.
Turning Point:
The bottom of the 1st was a real dagger. The Rockies jumped on the Astros early and often yet again. It's hard to keep motivated when you keep digging an early hole.
Man of the Match:
Justin Maxwell. A pretty nice all around game.
Goat of the Game:
Lucas Harrell. Very rough outing.
