Astros 3, Mariners 1: Maybin steals show on Verlander’s debut

Justin Verlander and Cameron Maybin were the Tigers first round picks in back-to-back years (2004-05). The former Tigers draft picks took center stage on Tuesday at Safeco Field.

Verlander allowed one run on six hits over six innings, while striking out seven and walking one. But it was Cameron Maybin that stole the show with a two-run home run in a 3-1 win.

Maybin blasted a 3-2 pitch from James Pazos in the seventh inning over the center field wall. The home run broke up a no-hit bid from the Mariners staff after 19 outs.

Mariners starter Ariel Miranda go through six innings with no hits, but he did walk six batters. The Astros got a run across in the third inning after Miranda walked the bases loaded. Alex Bregman picked up a sacrifice fly.

Verlander battled through a few rough spots on Tuesday. He needed 11 pitches to get through Robinson Cano in the first inning. Verlander also worked around runners in scoring position with two outs in the second and third innings.

The Mariners’ lone run came from Kyle Seager, who hit his 21st home run of the season.

Ken Giles looked as dominant as he ever as an Astro. He picked up his 29th save with three strikeouts on 10 pitches.