Houston Astros Come Back to Defeat Chicago Cubs 4-3

The Houston Astros were able to hold on and defeat the Chicago Cubs by a final score of 4-2 Wednesday afternoon despite a 9^th inning scare.

Houston’s Brian Bogusevic, who hit a game-winning grand slam Tuesday night, had a two-run double in the third inning off Casey Coleman, who was recalled from Triple-A Iowa to replace Carlos Zambrano in the rotation.

Chicago’s Aramiz Ramirez hit a two-run homer and Geovany Soto had a solo shot for the Cubs, who had won four straight series prior to dropping two of three to Houston.

Matt Downs hit the go-ahead two-run single in the bottom of the 4^th and closer Mark Melancon wiggled out of a tough jam in the 9^th. The Cubs Darwin Barney led off the 9^th with a single against Melancon and moved to third on Ramirez’s perfectly hit grounder up the middle. Melancon then retired Carlos Pena on a popup before pinch-runner Tony Campana stole second to put runners on second and third with one out.

Soto then hit a slow roller to shortstop Clint Barmes who three to third to catch Barney in a rundown. Marlon Byrd ended the game with a ground ball to second base, giving Melancon his 12^th save of the season.

Houston starting pitcher Bud Norris (6-8) allowed three runs and six hits in what was his first win since July 6^th.