Mike Lamb hit the go-ahead RBI double in the seventh inning and strong relief pitching propelled the Stros to extend their season-high winning streak to eight games with a 6-5 victory over the Pirates on Saturday night at the Juice Box. The Stros have now won 10 of their last 11 gaves and 16 out of their last 19 to pull within two games of the Cubs in the race for the National League Wild Card playooff spot.
Houston starter Carlos Hernandez struggled through three innings, giving up four earned runs on four hits, including Jason Bay‘s three run yak. However, Kirk Bullinger, Chad Harville, Chad Qualls, Russ Springer, and Brad Lidge gave up just one more run the rest of the way to secure the win. Lidge pitched the ninth for his 20th save in 23 opportunities.
The Stros’ Pete Munro tries to keep the momentum going in Sunday’s matinee against Baylor-ex Kip Wells. The Reds come to the Juice Box on Monday to provide more batting practice for the Stros’ hitters during a three game set.