Angels 5 - 2 Astros: Rough fifth inning downs ‘Stros

I guess win streaks can’t last forever.

The Houston Astros were stymied tonight by the Los Angeles Angels, ending their win streak at five games entering tonight’s contest. Astros starter Joe Musgrove pitched well through four innings, but ultimately lost control in the fifth to an old foe all Astros fans wished would just retire already: Albert Pujols.

The Astros led going into the fifth inning with a 2-1 lead courtesy of solo homers by George Springer and Yulieski Gurriel. Springer’s shot was especially impressive, jumping off the bat and sailing into the batter’s eye in center field. Unfortunately, that would be the last time the Astros held the lead on the night.

Musgrove looked solid tonight through four innings of work. He ran into a bit of trouble in the second inning, giving up a solo shot to Andrelton Simmons, but recovered enough to keep things going. However, the Angels were able to work counts and keep Musgrove on the mound longer in the fifth.

Martin Maldonado started the Angels offensive with an infield single. He’d advance to second on a single by Yunel Escobar. After a Kole Calhoun strikeout, Mike Trout doubled in Maldonado to tie the game at two apiece and bring up the ghost of NL past, Albert Pujols. Musgrove threw a fat slider right into Pujols’ wheelhouse, who promptly distributed the ball over the Crawford Boxes.

The Astros did threaten a couple of times throughout the rest of the game, but could never push another run across. However, the bullpen put together another impressive performance tonight. The trio of Michael Feliz, Jandel Gustave and Brad Peacock tossed four scoreless innings, holding the Angels to one hit and two walks while striking out six.

Tonight’s game ends the Astros win streak at five games and brings their record to 9-5. They’ll look to start again tomorrow at 7:10 p.m. Dallas Keuchel takes the bump for the Astros against the Angels’ J.C. Ramirez.