Sampson: Hit Hard
(c) Associated Press
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Chris Sampson surrendered four runs in 3-1/3 innings before leaving the game when he was struck in the hip by a line drive. Houston proceeded to blow a 6-0 lead in a 10-9 loss to Detroit.
Hunter Pence had two hits and scored three times to raise his spring average above .400. Lance Berkman added an RBI single and double to the cause as they beat up Justin Verlander early.
A three-run rally in the ninth tied the game before Chad Paronto surrendered the winning run in the bottom half.
The Astros have their final tuneup in Kissimmee at 12:05 Wednesday when Roy Oswalt will face the Cleveland Indians. After that, there will be a road game Thursday before two games in Houston Friday and Saturday against the Tigers. The regular season starts Monday in San Diego.
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