Wolf: From worst to, um, worst.
(c) Associated Press
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The Houston Astros traded for Randy Wolf as if they still had hopes of making the playoffs this season. But then the Pittsburgh Pirates put them in their place - last place. The Pirates won their third series of the year from Houston with an 8-2 thrashing on Tuesday night. Paul Maholm held the Astros in check most of the way, allowing one run over eight innings.
Meanwhile, the Pirates chipped away at AAA call-up Jack Cassel for five runs over five frames then put the icing on the cake when Tim Byrdak gave up a three-run homer for the second straight night. Freddy Sanchez led the way with three hits, including a double and a homer.
No doubt Cassel will be taking the Greyhound back to Austin when Wolf arrives from San Diego. The veteran lefty, who won the first official game at what was then called Enron Field, arrives for the price of minor league pitcher Chad Reineke. The Astros are targeting Sunday as Wolf's first start with his new team.
Next up, however, is a Wednesday matinee 1:05 Central start against the Bucs. Brian Moehler (5-4) tries to avoid the sweep against Ian Snell (3-8) in a battle to avoid the Central Division basement.
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