Game Hero, 36 - 47

Trever Miller

2/3 IP, 0 H, 0 BB, 0 HBP, 0 ER, 0 homers, 0 ground rule doubles .239 Win Probability Added . . . with an average leverage index of 3.91 Fourth save in an Astro uniform Career Game Hero award number 1-1/3

He hasn't been getting better, he's been getting worse.

His ERA in April was 3.86.
His ERA in May was 6.52.
His ERA in June was 14.40.

But. but, but, but, but. His ERA in July is now 0.00, and he is the reason I am writing now about a nice win, rather than an excruciatingly painful loss. Because the game was right there, on edge, waiting to be lost with Helms on third, Bourn on second and only one out. Dan Wheeler was not getting out of that jam.

Neither was Trever Miller, most likely.

But surprise! He got the job done, and of such stuff are Game Heroes made.

Miller becomes the third Astros pitcher in the last 4-1/2 years to record a save in a game which he entered with an ERA above 7.00. The first two were named Dan Wheeler, and they were named Dan Wheeler in April of this year.

Miller has also now recorded exactly one save--no more no less--for each year he's been with the Astros. The dates April 26, June 14, September 27, and now July 2 take on special meaning I'm sure in the Miller household.

Congratulations to Trever, who defeated the omens and portents that come with a terrible season Monday night. The club turned to him in desperation and he came through for them in the most emphatic way possible.

Here's hoping his July ERA stays right where it is.