The Houston Astros (22-38) were rightfully derided in the preseason as one of Major League Baseball's biggest jokes this season, carrying a roster intentionally bereft of veteran talent so that they can bottom out, acquire high draft picks and rebuild from within. However, the Astros have gotten hot, and will try to take their second game of a three-game series with the Baltimore Orioles this afternoon at 2:10 p.m., in a game that can be live streamed here. Orioles fans can hear the game on 1090 WBAL, while Astros fans can listen in on KBME 790.
In their last 10 games, Houston has gone 8-2, and left no doubt that the Miami Marlins are the worst team in MLB. Astros outfielder J.D. Martinez, speaking after last night's victory over the Orioles, said, "You felt like you needed headphones or ear plugs in the dugout because everybody was hitting the ball hard." Manager Bo Porter also praised Bud Norris (5-4, 3.39 ERA) who ended a three-game winless streak in his last start, saying he pitched with great energy and passion, which Houston has shown plenty of during their hot stretch.
The Orioles, who are engaged in a four-way free-for-all in the American League East division with the Boston Red Sox, New York Yankees, and Tampa Bay Rays cannot afford to lose games to the Astros. Instead of handing the ball to Jason Hammel, who was tossed from his last start fairly early in his outing and thus limiting his pitch count, Orioles manager Buck Showalter is turning to Miguel Gonzalez (2-2, 4.33 ERA).
The Orioles will be without outfielder Nick Markakis, who will miss his second consecutive game following the death of his grandmother. In his absence, Chris Davis will attempt to pick up the slack as he has all season, by extending his hitting streak to six games.
© Copyright 2024 Sports World News, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
