The Houston Astros Squander Yet Another Late Inning Lead as They Lose to the Oakland Athletics 4-3

The Houston Astros season continues to get worse as they lost once again last night to the Oakland Athletics 4-3 at Minute Maid Park.  Houston starter Dallas Keuchel had a solid outing as he went six innings while giving up just one run on five hits, but the bullpen could not hold on late as they gave three runs after Keuchel left the game.

The offense got started early as shortstop Jonathan Villar (Pictured on the Right), batting leadoff in his Major League debut, put a bunt single down to start the third and promptly stole second. Chris Carter drove him home with a two-out single to make it 2-0.  Oakland's Josh Reddick hit the game-winning homer on a 3-2 pitch with one out in the eighth off of reliever Welsley Wright to give Oakland the win last night.

Houston will look to earn their first win against the A's this year as they continue their midweek series.  First pitch tonight is set for 7:10 pm from Minute Maid Park.  Houston will send rookie Jarred Cosart to the mound who will try and follow up his debut performance with another victory.  Cosart went eight innings giving up zero runs on just two hits and was able to throw 6 1/3 innings of no-hit ball in a 2-1 win.  He will need a similar outing if he wants to take down the division leading Athletics.