Last time out, Chris Sampson went 6 2/3 innings and gave up just 2 runs in an Astros 4-3 win against the Padres.  Looper for the Cardinals went 6 innings and gave up just 1 run earning his 1st win of the season. 

Sampson has been fighting the flu for a few days but says there is no way he isn't starting in tonight's game.  But just to be sure, he took a visit to the doctor on Tuesday and was given multiple shots to help fight it off.  Hopefully the ill effects of the flu will not hinder Sampson today as he looks to right the ship for the Astros and help them win their 1st series of the year. 

In other news, the Astros could have 2 of their starters back in the lineup by the end of the week.  Kaz Matsui (who has yet to make a start for the Astros), went 1-3 with a double in his 1st minor league rehab start in Corpus.  The Astros expect him to make 2-3 more minor league appearances and then possibly return by the end of the upcoming Florida series.  If not, then he will for sure be back for the Phillies series starting on Tuesday.  Wigginton is hoping he'll be able to stay off the disabled list and will test his broken thumb tomorrow.  If he can show that he is able to grip a bat and field his position, the Astros will keep him off the DL.  Otherwise, he'll go on the DL and the Astros will pull someone up to fill in until he is competely healed.