Backe sounds like he is back in form. Got a DP after walking Jr Griffey. I have a real good notion that Backe is going to deliver an ERA right between 3.50-4.00 this year. I really see him giving a solid #3 performance this year.

Pence also hit a 2B off of F Cordero(the $46mil closer).

Astros with 3-0 lead.  But DeJean can't find the strike zone after allowing a lead off triple. Game is 3-2 now with no outs.

Astros blanked 'em for 8 innings, until DeJean, who to date had been faring pretty well in ST, allowed all five hitters he faced to reach base, giving up a leadoff triple to Castro, walking three, then getting chased with a single.  Houston didn't help matters, letting the first guy he faced to double to the gap, ending the game.

Backe had a nice outing, going four scoreless, striking out a pair, and stranding a walk and a hit.  His GO/AO numbers were 8/2.  Very encouraging.

Pence and Bourn homered.  Bourn now with 3 of his 10 ST hits for extra bases.  He seems to drive the ball much better than Willy T did.  He also has 6 walks, so his .370 avg is good for a .485 OBP to go with his .556 SLG.  AND he's stolen 5 bases in the 15 times he's been on base (not counting his homer).  i think it's safe to say he's having a nice spring.

Not too much else of note... Q with another hit and another RBI.  Wright had another scoreless, walkless inning.  Not sure how many lefties he faced.

Sucks we lost, but everything up until DeJean strolled to the mound was just peachy.