Wandy Rodriguez’s pitching takes Houston Astros to 3-2 win over Pittsburgh Pirates – MLB Update
Wandy Rodriguez pitched into the eighth inning to take Houston Astros to a 3-2 victory against the Pittsburgh Pirates at PNC Park, Pittsburgh on Friday, May 6.
This became the fourth consecutive win for Rodriguez as a starting pitcher playing against the Pirates. Although Houston has not remained particularly impressive in the ongoing season, Rodriguez has contributed significantly in the few wins the team has
had.
Rodriguez’s feat was a morale booster for other team members as well. "There's virtually no stopping them on the base paths," said Hunter Pence."It's unparalleled, and something exciting to watch. Even playing with them, it's pretty incredible to see them
do what they do."
The game began with the sacrifice fly to right by Hunter Pence that allowed his and the team’s first run. The 1-0 lead was effectively maintained by none other than Rodriguez, who was simply uncompromising. His fastballs barely allowed the Pirates’ hitters
to score.
“With him pitching like he did, facing the minimum through four innings, in less than ideal conditions out there with the rain... It got to be a little tentative out there, but he was still OK with it," said Astros’ manager Brad Mills. “And he battled through
it and got us seven innings, really doing a good job. He came in throwing strikes, and that's what you like to see.”
Wandy gave up two hits and allowed the Pirates’ their first run in the fifth inning when Brandon doubled to left. This brought the score level. While Rodriguez remained unhittable in the next inning, the seventh inning brought another single for the Astros,
as Neil Walker homered to left to not only score the tiebreak, but also give a 2-1 lead to the Pirates.
Pence’s contribution was what the Astros were probably eagerly awaiting. He doubled to deep right to level the score, leaving Chris Resop, who had come out to pitch for the Pirates, completely surprised. Carlos Lee went for another hit to give the Astros
a 3-2 lead in the eighth inning.
Wilton Lopez and Mark Melancon made sure in the respective 8th and 9th innings to not allow the Pirates to break the lead. They were successful in their strategy and this brought a favourable result to Houston. When Lyle Overbay flied
out to left, failing to play Melancon, Houston formally sealed a 3-2 victory against Pittsburgh.
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