The Winds Of Change Blow Astros Down In 11-9 Loss To Yankees

The wind was blowing out in this one in a big way. The Yankees and Astros combined for 20 runs, 28 hits and nine home runs.

In short, it was a typical spring training game.

The game was ended with one out in the top of the ninth after the rain that threatened all game finally hit.

Offense

Justin Ruggiano hit a big 3-run homer in the second inning, his first of the spring, going 2 for 4 with four RBIs. Carlos Lee hit his second homer of the season while Brian Bogusevic also hit his second home run, going 2 for 4 with two RBIs.

Chris Johnson went 3 for 4 with two runs scored and a solo home run in the eighth inning. Travis Buck had two hits while Landon Powell hit a double in his only plate appearance. Oh, and Marwin Gonzalez hit a triple hitting ninth.

Sadly, no Astros felt the need to draw a walk in this one. I guess it's going to be a long year of learning how this new front office things. Kinda like Moneyball.

Pitching

This is not a good sign for Jordan Lyles' chances of making the rotation. The sophomore right-hander gave up 11 hits and eight runs in 4 2/3 innings of work. He walked one, struck out one and gave up two home runs. Of course, the wind was blowing out for most of the game, but still...

Compare what Lyles did to R.J. Alaniz. If you don't recognize the name, he's a former undrafted free agent signed by Rusty Pendergrass after the swine flu wiped out his high school's entire season in his senior year. Alaniz hasn't pitched above Low A ball, but took it to the Yankees, giving up a solo home run, but striking out five in 2 innings while giving up two hits. Oh, and did I mention that Alaniz threw 18 pitches and all 18 were for strikes?

Yeah, he was pretty locked in.

Not a great appearance for Brandon Lyon, who gave up home runs to Jose Gil and Dante Bichette, Jr. on consecutive pitches.

Defense

No errors. That is all.

GameThread Comments Of The Day

good to see Brandon Lyon can still get Bill Hall out

by AstroB on Mar 31, 2012 2:29 PM CDT reply Rec Flag Delete Hide

Sunday

12:05 p.m. vs. split squad Detroit Tigers Radio: KTRH 740