Astros Lose to Twins, 5-3

Before getting into tonight’s recap, I would like to personally send my deepest condolences to the family of Astros legendary pitcher J. R. Richard, who passed away Thursday. Richard pitched for the Astros from 1971-1980, amassing a record of 107-71, with a career ERA of 3.15 and is considered one of the greatest players ever to wear an Astros uniform.

Framber Valdez came into tonights game sporting a 7-2 record with a 3.01 ERA and a WHIP of 1.30 in 12 starts. Valdez started strong with two strikeouts and a lineout in the first inning, but things started to deteriorate from there, as he allowed 4 runs to score off of 6 hits for the Twins over his 6.2 innings of work, although he did strikeout 7 Twins. The Astros could not keep the Twins from adding on to their lead as Cristian Javier gave up a bunt RBI single to Andrelton Simmons in the 8th.

Offensively, the Astros tried this game a competitive one via the home run in the later innings. Jason Castro hit his third home run of the year, a solo shot in the sixth to cut into the Twins 4-0 lead.

Yordan Alvarez blasted a two home run in the 9th inning to get the Astros within 2 runs, 5-3.

But the comeback was not meant to be as Martin Maldonado flew out to end the game with Kyle Tucker in scoring position on second.

The Astros are back at it against the Twins tomorrow evening at 7:10 CT on ATT Sportsnet. Zack Grienke will be on the mound for the Astros and Bailey Ober will be on the mound for the Twins.

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