MLB Scores: Reds 6, Astros 1

The road to (Rodon) the top draft pick next year has gotten interesting. Miami's recent horrible play coupled with Houston showing signs of life this month, going 6-8 thus far, has brought the deficit to within four games.

It remained that on Monday night after Miami fell 12-2 to the Phillies. But the Astros are currently dealing with a team who is in the middle of a playoff race, and a sweep would be very helpful.

The Reds threw Johnny Cueto on Monday who scattered five Astros hits in his five scoreless innings. Cincinnati, leading 6-0, clearly didn't seem too threatened by the Astros when they pulled the righty and let the bullpen take it the rest of the way.

Jose Altuve is now hitting .439 in September with a 2-for-4 night. No other Astro had more than one hit, with Chris Carter and Trevor Crowe recording doubles. Crowe later scored on a Matt Dominguez ground out in the sixth inning.

Houston countered the Reds with Erik Bedard who was returning to the rotation after a second stint in the bullpen this season. Bedard looked sharp early, striking out four of the first six batters he faced. From there on it wasn't too good.

Zack Cozart's two-run home run in the second inning got things started for the Reds who would eventually chase Bedard after four innings. The Astros' lefty allowed only four hits, but four crossed home plate as well.

Lucas Harrell didn't make things much better in the fifth as he allowed two walks and a single to load the bases. Jay Bruce came through with a two-run single to give the Reds their six-run advantage.

Harrell did end up finishing the game, allowing three hits and four walks in his five innings.

Jordan Lyles looks to get the Astros back on track tomorrow as he will square off against Mike Leake.