Astros 6, Angels 3; Astros Go Streaking

The Astros have won three games in a row for the first time this season and have won the last four of five games played.

Dallas Keuchel started the game for the Astros and in seven innings allowed two runs on six hits and four strikeouts. No walks are an encouraging sign for Keuchel who has had a bit of a problem walking batters since being promoted to the majors. In the minors Keuchel had a walks per nine innings under two. At the big league level he's walked close to four batters per nine innings. For a guy that is not going to strike out a lot of batters Keuchel needs to get the walks under control. Last nights start was a good step forward for him.

Paul Clemens, Travis Blackley and Jose Veras combined to pitch the eighth and ninth innings. The trio only allowed one run, a solo home run given up by Clemens, to help secure the win, Keuchel's second of the season.

On the offensive side of the ball, the Astros banged out 11 hits and walked twice. Carlos Pena was 3-5 with a run driven in and an interesting run scored. In the fourth inning with Pena on third and the score tied at 2-2, Matt Dominguez lifted a fly ball to right field. After the ball was caught, Pena started to race home only to stop about half way then continue on to score after he realized no one was covering home plate. The catcher had vacated the plate to make sure the off line throw didn't get past him and no one else was there to cover the plate. Here's the video of the play.

Chris Carter was the other Astros to reach base multiple times. He was 1-1 with two walks and a run driven in. Jason Castro also continued his hot hitting with a solo home run to start the scoring in the fourth inning.

All around good win for the Astros!