Astros Lose Second Game In A Row To Nationals

For the second day in a row the Astros had a late lead against the Nationals and for the second day in a row the Astros were unable to secure a win.

Pitchers

Alex White started for the Astros and gave up two runs on seven hits in four innings, Wesley Wright followed White and allowed two hits but no runs in his inning of work. John Ely worked 1.1 innings allowing a grand slam to the most recent pitcher to hitter convert Micah Owings in the seventh. Rhiner Cruz and Jose Valdez followed Ely and gave up no hits or runs in their appearances.

One of the things to note about the overall pitching in the game for the Astros is that they allowed only one walk while striking four. More strikeouts for the staff would be good but I think the coaching staff has the pitchers working in the strike zone which is something not all of them may be comfortable with. In Spring Training action the Astros as a team are 10th in walks allowed.

Hitting

Carlos Pena and Rick Ankiel were the only two hitters to reach base multiple times. Both Nate Freiman and Marwin Gonzalez hit their first homerun of the Spring; both times the Astros took the lead in the game. It's nice to see some power from Freiman as he's hit this Spring but not for much power. Overall the Astros scored three runs on six hits, four walks and struck out 10 times.

Next

vs Pittsburgh Pirates 12:05 p.m. CT

Broadcast: KBME 790 AM, CSN Houston, MLB Network (LIVE) and MLB.TV