Dunn: Pair of jacks.
(c) Associated Press
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Lefthander Wandy Rodriguez had trouble with lefthaded hitters Wednesday. Adam Dunn slugged a pair of homers and Ken Griffey Jr. blasted the 608th round-tripper of his career to lead Cincinnati over the Astros, 9-5, and avert the series sweep. It was Houston's first loss of the year against the Reds in five games.
Hunter Pence and Ty Wigginton responded with homers but only after the Reds had built a 7-0 lead for rookie ace Edinson Volquez. The loss pulled the Astros back into a virtual tie for fourth with Cincinnati.
Elsewhere, the front office dealt a minor leaguer from A-ball to the New York Yankees for veteran reliever LaTroy Hawkins (1-1, 5.71 ERA). The righthander was already designated for assignment so Ed Wade could have waited a few more days and signed him as a free agent without compensation. Instead, the Yanks agreed to send some cash to help pay for Hawkins' salary the rest of the season. No word at this time on who might be sent down to make room for Hawkins on the roster.
The Astros get Thursday off before continuing the homestand Friday against the Mets in a 7:05 Central start. Pedro Martinez (3-2) will throw for the New Yorkers if healthy. Brandon Backe (6-10) will take the mound for Houston.
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