Washington Nationals edge Houston Astros 4-3 as Gio Gonzalez shines on the mound - MLB Update
The starter Gio Gonzalez throws a complete game as he leads the Washington Nationals to a 4-3 win against the Houston Astros at Minute Maid Park, Houston, Texas on August 8, 2012 in the third game of the four match series.
In the last few matches, the Nationals are following a pattern on their way to winning games. Far from scoring excessive runs, they are posting just enough score, making sure they end up ahead of the opposition.
It was the third game of the series and Washington turned out victorious with just one run ahead.
By the end of the second inning, the Nationals had scored three runs. Thus, they were leading by two runs. Later on, Astros, far from quickly blowing the lead, were slow in their chase.
Nationals' starter Gonzalez showed great command and control. Throughout the game, he did not allow Astros to experience a run-rampage. Although he yielded nine hits, he did not let batters reach home plate frequently. Furthermore, he struck-out seven.
Meanwhile, Gonzalez says he is enjoying his time in the season.
"It means a lot. The first time in my career going nine innings (and) also getting the home run," Gonzalez said. "Today is one of those things where you can just can smile about it, but tomorrow is a new day."
The Nationals’ manager Davey Johnson is growing uneasy with the way Bryce Harper is struggling to connect with hits on the plate. While in recent past the Nationals’ offence performed extremely well, in the last few games signs of decline are visible.
"He's pressing a little bit," Johnson said. "I'll give him the day off ... and let him regroup a little bit. He didn't have good (at-bats), so I'll let him step back a little bit."
Furthermore, their first baseman Adam LaRoche, who is one of the most prolific hitters for the team in the season, was hitless on Wednesday. Similarly, their centre fielder Harper was 0-for-3 on Wednesday.
Despite witnessing below par performances from the offence, Washington leads the series.
However, an improved show by the Astros can cost them a defeat in the last game. Therefore, the manager Johnson will be making sure players understand their responsibilities and work out issues before they appear on the field.
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