MLB Scores: Thank goodness for Rick Ankiel, Astros lose 3-2

There are a few truths about this 2013 Astros team. One is it should be at least the most powerful team since 2008 and maybe longer.

Unfortunately, this lineup will also struggle to make contact at times, and could very well get no-hit at least once. On Saturday, the Braves came close to that, giving up just two hits to Houston and beating the Astros 3-2.

Rick Ankiel, the presumptive starter in right field, had both hits after entering the game as a pinch-hitter for Fernando Martinez. Ankiel hit a home run and a double in his two at-bats, driving in both of Houston's runs.

Phillip Humber turned in another nice start, allowing three runs and no walks in 6 innings of work while striking out four. He also took the tough-luck loss, getting outdueled by a filthy Julio Teheran, who struck out 10 in 6 innings. Houston did get some good relief work from both Josh Fields and Rhiner Cruz.

Overall, though, this was just a bad game for the Houston offense. Chris Carter picked up a walk and scored in Ankiel's ninth inning homer off Craig Kimbrel. At least it finished up quickly, ending in about 2 hours, 14 minutes.

What did you think? Are you worried about Houston's penchant to not make contact this season?