Okay, so it was only a 2 game sweep of the Padres, but with the way things are going for the Astros so far this season; a sweep is a sweep.  The Astros beat the Padres tonight 11-7 and currently sit tied for 4th in the NL central with the Reds, 5.5 games back of the Chicago Cubs. 

The Astros offense has really started to mesh over the last few days, scoring 10+ runs in both games against the Padres and has pushed the Astros into a 3 game win streak.  Miguel Tejada has been outstanding.  Words can hardly describe the way Miggy has hit over the past few days.  Starting with the last game of the Rockies series, Tejada is a combined 10 for 15 with 1 HR, 3 doubles and 7 RBI's.  Tejada's average is now up to .370.  The Astros overall tonight hit the ball very well with the only Astros starter to go hitless on the night, was Brandon Backe. 

Other Notables
• Matsui : 2-5, 2 RBI's
• Erstad : 2-5, RBI
• Berkman : 2-2, 2 BB, 2 RBI
• Blum : 2-5, RBI
• Pence : 1-4, HR, 2 RBI

Pitching wise, Brandon Backe came back strong tonight after getting completely destroyed in his last outing.  Tonight Backe pitched 7 strong innings allowing just 3 runs with 4 strike outs.  Brandon left after the 7th inning with a 7-4 lead, but unfortunately ended the night with a no decision as the bullpen gave up 4 runs to put the Padres ahead for the 9th.  Brocail did the most damage by allowing 4 earned runs and Valverde earned his 3rd blown save of the season and stole a win from Backe(also V's 3rd win of the season).