After winning the first three games of their four-game series, the Red Sox missed out on another series sweep as they were shut out in a 1-0 loss to the Philadelphia Phillies last night. They had previously won their first two against the Detroit Tigers, but also lost the final game of the series.
Last night’s loss wasted another amazing start from Chris Sale, who took the L even though he went eight innings, gave up just one run and struck out 10.
Drew Pomeranz will look to produce an equally impressive performance in his start tonight. The lefty struggled last time out against the Tigers, as he gave up five earned runs on eight hits in just 4.1 innings. However, Pomeranz had been pitching well prior to that start. He had a 2.05 ERA in his previous four outings.
The Red Sox went 5-2 in their seven meetings against the Astros last season.
The Astros have fallen back down to earth in recent weeks as they’ve gone just 3-6 in their last nine games. However, they still have the best record in the majors and snapped a three-game skid with last night’s dominant 13-2 win over the Texas Rangers.
Mike Fiers will be hoping for similar run sport as he gets the call to start at home. The 32-year-old righty has been pitching very well of late. He has recorded a quality start in three of his last five starts, and has won three decisions in a row.
Fiers is coming off his best outing of the year against his old team, the Los Angeles Angels, in his most recent start at home. He went 7.1 strong innings and gave up no earned runs on two hits and struck out eight. Fiers has a 3.00 ERA at Minute Maid Park, 2.40 better than his ERA on the road.
The Astros are 4-0 in Fiers’ last four starts and are 8-4 in his 12 starts overall this season.
