Houston Astros (22-41) at Kansas City Royals (27-32), 1:10 pm (CT)

Houston at Kansas City, 1:10 PM CT

TV: CSN Houston
Radio: KBME 790 AM
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Pitching Match

RHP Lucas Harrell (4-7/ 4.76 ERA / 1.68 WHIP) vs. RHP Luis Mendoza (1-3 / 4.76 ERA / 1.55 WHIP)

Preview

The Astros send Lucas Harrell to the mound in hopes of salvaging a win in Kansas City. Harrell returned to form in his last start, striking out six and allowing only two runs over seven innings against the Orioles. Unfortunately, the Astros picked up their first loss in seven tries that game and the righty was the tough-luck loser. In 2010 as White Sox pitcher, Harrell made one start against the Royals. He lasted 3 1/3 innings and gave up six runs, highlighted by a Billy Butler 3-run home run. Harrell will be making his sixth start on the road; he has 3.34 ERA away from the Juice Box this year.

Luis Mendoza, will pitch to contact and relies on the defense behind him. The Royals right-hander will work a sinker and curveball against the Astros. In his last start Mendoza struggled with his command, throwing 95 pitches over 4 1/3 innings. He picked up the loss against Minnesota.