Houston Astros Fall to Chicago Cubs 4-2 in Series Opener

The Houston Astros jumped out to an early 2-0 lead, but failed to build on that lead despite

getting three men on in three consecutive innings, and a four-run Cubs fifth inning ending up gaving baseball’s second-worst team a 4-2 win over MLB’s worst team.

Aramis Ramirez’s 18^th homer-run of the season capped Chicago’s four-run rally in the inning, while Alfonso Soriano started the inning off with his 15^th homer of the season. Cub’s starter Carlos Zambrano won for just the second time since May 26^th and improved his overall record against Houston to 16-8, which is the most wins against the Astros by an active pitcher. After Zambrano exitied the game five Cub’s relievers combined to throw three scoreless innings of relief. Sean Marshall pitched the ninth for his third save of the season.

Houston starting pitcher Bud Norris took the loss in his first career start at Wrigley Field. He gave up nine hits in 6 1/3 innings, allowing four runs and striking out five, while moving his season record to 5-7. Centerfielder Michael Bourn had three hits in the game and two stolen bases.

For a full post game recap and box score click here.