*It's the Astros' first four-game losing streak of the season. The Astros have lost their last six road games. They've lost eight of their last ten games, and 11 of their last 15. Having lost nine games in July, the Astros are 2-8 in August.
*Charlie Morton got roughed up in the 3rd inning, allowing 4ER on the following:
Walk
Single
Morton error
Single
Single
Strikeout
Strikeout
Single
Strikeout
*Joe Musgrove, since moving to the bullpen: 12IP, 7H/1ER, 14K:1BB. 72% of pitches for strikes.
*Altuve represented the go-ahead run at the plate with two outs in the ninth, but watched an off-speed pitch cross the plate to strike out looking. Altuve:
I thought it was a ball, but it was a strike. Now tomorrow I have to apologize to the umpire.
*Springer hit a two-run home run in the 8th, his 28th of the season. Springer:
Obviously, I want to be able to play and perform, so I just have to get back out there and get my game eyes back and help the team.
*Alex Bregman hasn't struck out since July 30, a span of 51 plate appearances.
*MLB.com did a nice thing and talked about the worst stretches of the season endured by teams that went on to win the World Series - like the Cardinals, who had two eight-game losing streaks in their World Series year of 2006.
*Dayn Perry argues for straight-up buying Justin Verlander. Jeff Passan went on 610 yesterday to talk about panicking, and Justin Verlander.
*Will Harris hopes to throw a bullpen session off a mound this weekend. Lance McCullers has played catch, but hasn't thrown off a mound yet. Evan Gattis, who has been out with a concussion since August 3, won't return until after the Astros come back from Arizona next Tuesday.
The Astros have a 13-game lead despite playing like absolute dog crap for the last three weeks. They're not rushing anybody back.
*Jayne brought the noise this morning.
This is perfect. 100% accurate. I never @ players but this is a must watch because it's time... @kidkeuchy @RealJoshReddick pic.twitter.com/TF4n96W1fW— Astros351 (@astros351) August 11, 2017
*Jose Abreu had a traditional Cuban meal waiting for Yuli Gurriel when he got to the clubhouse in Chicago last week. Abreu:
I know the importance - and how difficult the adaptation process to this league and this country can be. Being able to find a little taste of our culture in the places we go is very important and reminds us of home. That is why I always try to help my fellow countrymen and make them feel comfortable here.
*J.R. Richard received the Sam Lacy Pioneer Award from the National Association of Black Journalists convention in New Orleans.
*Jon Singleton broke up Springfield's no-hit bid with a double in the 9th inning as Corpus took a 7-0 loss.
*Paul Janish is going to be a part of Rice's coaching staff next year.
