Game Preview No. 139: Houston Astros vs Oakland Athletics

Houston Astros (75-63) vs Oakland Athletics (59-79) September 8, 2015 9:05 PM CDT
TV:Root Sports SW, MLB.TV
Radio: KBME 790 AM, KLAT 1010 AM
Oakland Athletics SB Nation Blog: Athletics Nation

Pitching Matchup:

LHP Scott Kazmir (7-9, 2.50 ERA, 1.12 WHIP) vs. RHP Sonny Gray (12-7, 2.36 ERA, 1.00 WHIP)

Preview:

The Astros face a tough matchup as they try to even this series with the A's. Right-hander Sonny Gray has been one of the strongest starting pitchers in the American League this season. The Astros will counter with Scott Kazmir, a former teammate and close friend of Gray.

Kazmir will be pitching in a familiar environment, where he made 26 starts over the last two season with a 2.73 ERA. He's trying to rebound from a short start his last time out when he allowed seven hits and two walks over four and a third innings at home against the Mariners.

Gray has also struggled recently, going 0-3 with a 4.32 ERA over his last four starts. He's faced the Astros twice this season, losing to them at Minute Maid Park but winning his decision at the O.Co Coliseum.

The Astros hope a return to familiar surroundings will be what Kazmir needs to turn in a strong pitching performance and lead the team to a rare road victory.

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