Norris: Reacts as Kotteras rounds
(c) Associated Press
|
It is sometimes difficult to tell one Astros loss from another, particularly when Milwaukee batters Houston pitching to an 8-2 pulp on consecutive nights. Brewers catcher George Kotteras starred on Saturday night as he became the first big leaguer all year to hit for the cycle.
Kotteras homered off losing pitcher Bud Norris, as did Craig Counsell. Norris allowed six runs over 5-1/3rd innings.
Carlos Lee homered to extend his hitting streak to 14 games. His two-run shot in the fifth was the only answer to Milwaukee's power. Houston managed just five hits.
The Brewers appear to be headed to their first NL Central title while the Astros are headed for their first 100-loss season. Saturday night's defeat was loss #92 with 23 left to play.
Houston will try to avoid another setback on Sunday when Wandy Rodriguez (10-9) takes the hill in the 1:05 Central series finale. Righthander Shaun Marcum (11-5) will pitch for the Brewers.
|