In today’s game preview, I mentioned that the Astros lineup, facing rookie Kade Morris making his Major League debut, will either feast or experience a famine.
Yeah, it was definitely a feast.
By the time the third inning concluded, Houston was leading 7-2, with the key moment being Yordan Alvarez’s grand slam in the second.
The game was arguably over by this point, but we all know that this pitching staff has coughed up a fair share of leads this season. So, more runs wouldn’t be frowned upon. The Astros seemingly agreed, scoring six runs in the fifth inning to truly put this game out of reach by the score of 13-2.
The lineup obviously got the attention on this Saturday, and for good reason. Again, 13 runs on 14 hits (nine against Morris and four against José Suarez). Everyone got a hit except for Nick Allen, Brice Matthews, and Collin Price, who were all brought in later in the game once some of the regulars were done for the day. But the notable development was Tatsuya Imai’s pitching.
Was Imai unhittable? Nah, he wasn’t. His command/control is still a bit suspect at times. But considering how poorly he pitched to start his Major League career, you’d gladly take five innings of two-run ball with eight strikeouts. Yes, he walked three and allowed five hits, but his stuff looked good. Particularly his slider, racking up 11 whiffs on 25 swings.
Imai remains a work in progress; however, one can’t argue with his recent results. Even if he only tops out as a mid-rotation arm this season, you never turn your nose up at those results. Pitching depth is a fleeting concept for any team.
Overall, it was a successful Saturday for the Astros. The lineup made this game a no-doubter for the last three innings. Imai, AJ Blubaugh, and Alimber Santa all had good days on the mound, with the positives outweighing the negatives. Honestly, no complaints, which isn’t something I’ve been able to state often this season. I hope it becomes a more common theme as summer truly takes off.
Feature photo from Astros on X
Today was a game for Bryan Abreu. Not kidding. Abreu needs to figure out a few things, today’s game was the game. If not today, then when?
In 3 games Imai has gotten his ERA down from 8.31 to 5.24. Mike Burrows’ ERA (5.66) is now higher than Imai’s. Actually, it was higher before the game too. Imai came in at 5.52.