FanPost

Astros @ Angels Game 1

Astros @ Angels
4/12/13

Bud Norris (1-1) vs. Tommy Hanson (1-0)

Tonight the Houston Astros take on another division rival in a huge series for both teams. For the 'Stros, they would love to build on their two game win streak after they dominated the Seattle Mariners in the final two games of that series.


The Houston lineup will be put to the test with Tommy Hanson (ERA 4.50) taking the mound for the Angels. In the four starts that Hanson has against the Astros, they've only batted .195 in 41 at bats. It'll be a test but with the way the 'Stros have been swinging the bat, it'll be fun to watch.


Bud Norris (ERA 3.18) will start for the Astros and has been very solid in his first two outings. He'll definitely have his work cut out for him tonight with the Angels stacked lineup. Houston are no strangers to to first baseman Albert Pujols who is batting third with former Texas Ranger, Josh Hamilton following. Bud Norris needs to bring his A game tonight.


Houston Astros coach Bo Porter needs to keep the same lineup that has been winning him games and producing all these runs. First baseman Brett Wallace should remain out of the lineup and let Chris Carter, who's been an absolute beast, start at first or Carlos Pena. Barnes will hopefully get the start at right field and Marwin Gonazelez absolutely should remain at short stop.


My Projected Lineup:
1. J. Altuve 2B
2. J. Maxwell CF
3. J.D. Martinez LF
4. C. 1B or DH
5. C. Pena DH or 1B
6. M. Dominguez 3B
7. J. Castro C
8. B. Barnes RF
9. M. Gonzelez SS

Predictions:
-Astros will hit two home runs tonight. (Maxwell and Dominguez)
-Bud Norris will go 6innings giving up 2 runs and 6 hits
-Albert Pujols won't get one hit tonight but Hamilton will hit a homer.


Final:
Astros: 7
Angels: 4
Astros will get the hard fought victory and improve their record to 4-6.