SAN FRANCISCO —

Brett Myers has put together several quality outings for the Houston Astros. Unfortunately there’s not a lot to show for it.

Myers allowed one run and two hits during his seven innings Saturday night, but the San Francisco Giants rallied against Fernando Rodriguez in the 10th inning for a 2-1 victory.

“He gave up the one run and one hit the rest of the way,” Astros manager Brad Mills said. “What a job he did. That’s one of the best performances we’ve seen out him. That was outstanding.”

Myers has thrown less than six innings in just three of his 28 starts this season and remains stuck at 3-13.

Myers, who has not won since June 17, matched season lows for runs and hits in the outing. He walked three and struck out seven. Myers is 0-7 over his last 13 starts.

“I just tried to throw strikes,” Myers said. “The first inning I got the ball up and they got the one run.”

Mike Fontenot doubled to lead off the first and scored when Carlos Beltran grounded out to first.

Myers retired 12 of the next 13 hitters and finished strong, striking out two of the last three batters he faced.

Former Astro Jeff Keppinger hit a run-scoring single with two outs in the 10th to chase home the winning run. He has driven in three of the Giants’ four runs the past two days.

“Trying to strike him out is a tough task,” Myers said. “He’ll give up two strikes. You just try to make a quality pitch and hope he hits it at somebody.”

Fernando Rodriguez (2-3) took the loss for the Astros, who reached 90 losses the quickest in franchise history.

“He’s a good hitter and I had thrown everything at him the last few times I faced him,” Rodriguez said. “I hit my spot and he was able to flick it out there. He’s one of those guys you have to battle and hope he makes a mistake.”

Beltran had two hits and drove in a run for the Giants, who have won two straight at home for the first time in over a month.

Carlos Lee had three hits and drove in a run for the Astros, who have lost six of seven.

Eric Surkamp was called up from Double-A Richmond to make the start. A control pitcher, he walked the first batter he faced and three in the first three innings. Surkamp allowed one run on six hits. He walked three and struck out four in his major league debut.

Mark DeRosa, in as part of a double switch, singled with one out and then stole his first base in two years to set up Keppinger’s hit.

Jeremy Affeldt (3-2) got the final two outs of the 10th to earn the win as the Giants were able to keep pace with the Arizona Diamondbacks, who beat the San Diego Padres to stay three games up in the NL West.

Fontenot was the only Giant to venture any farther than second base until the 10th.

The Astros were 1 for 10 with runners in scoring position, with Lee’s double driving in the tying run in the fifth. Houston stranded 10 runners.

NOTES: OF Nate Schierholtz was placed on the 15-day DL to make room for Surkamp. … Astros IF Jose Altuve led off for the fourth time because Mills wanted OF Jason Bourgeois to hit second. … Mills does not want to put one of his pitchers in a position to lose 20 games. “Hopefully that’s not an issue,” he said. “That wouldn’t be too cool. We have other issues.” … Astros’ RHP Bud Norris, a native of nearby Novato and a Giants fan growing up, will make his first career appearance at AT&T Park on Sunday. Norris is 2-2 over his last 10 starts. He’s 11th in the NL with 151 strikeouts and seventh in strikeouts per nine innings. … The Giants will send RHP Matt Cain to the mound on Sunday. He’s 1-3 in seven appearances, six starts, against the Astros and allowed seven runs on nine hits in 2 2-3 innings in his last start against them. … Giants RHP Brian Wilson played catch for the third straight day, reporting some improvement in his right elbow. … Giants IF Pablo Sandoval was replaced by a pinch-hitter for the first time this season. … DeRosa last stole a base on June 25, 2009.

“He gave up the one run and one hit the rest of the way,” Astros manager Brad Mills said. “What a job he did. That’s one of the best performances we’ve seen out him. That was outstanding.”

Myers has thrown less than six innings in just three of his 28 starts this season and remains stuck at 3-13.

Myers, who has not won since June 17, matched season lows for runs and hits in the outing. He walked three and struck out seven. Myers is 0-7 over his last 13 starts.

“I just tried to throw strikes,” Myers said. “The first inning I got the ball up and they got the one run.”

Mike Fontenot doubled to lead off the first and scored when Carlos Beltran grounded out to first.

Myers retired 12 of the next 13 hitters and finished strong, striking out two of the last three batters he faced.

Former Astro Jeff Keppinger hit a run-scoring single with two outs in the 10th to chase home the winning run. He has driven in three of the Giants’ four runs the past two days.

“Trying to strike him out is a tough task,” Myers said. “He’ll give up two strikes. You just try to make a quality pitch and hope he hits it at somebody.”

Fernando Rodriguez (2-3) took the loss for the Astros, who reached 90 losses the quickest in franchise history.

“He’s a good hitter and I had thrown everything at him the last few times I faced him,” Rodriguez said. “I hit my spot and he was able to flick it out there. He’s one of those guys you have to battle and hope he makes a mistake.”

Beltran had two hits and drove in a run for the Giants, who have won two straight at home for the first time in over a month.

Carlos Lee had three hits and drove in a run for the Astros, who have lost six of seven.

Eric Surkamp was called up from Double-A Richmond to make the start. A control pitcher, he walked the first batter he faced and three in the first three innings. Surkamp allowed one run on six hits. He walked three and struck out four in his major league debut.

Mark DeRosa, in as part of a double switch, singled with one out and then stole his first base in two years to set up Keppinger’s hit.

Jeremy Affeldt (3-2) got the final two outs of the 10th to earn the win as the Giants were able to keep pace with the Arizona Diamondbacks, who beat the San Diego Padres to stay three games up in the NL West.

Fontenot was the only Giant to venture any farther than second base until the 10th.

The Astros were 1 for 10 with runners in scoring position, with Lee’s double driving in the tying run in the fifth. Houston stranded 10 runners.

NOTES: OF Nate Schierholtz was placed on the 15-day DL to make room for Surkamp. … Astros IF Jose Altuve led off for the fourth time because Mills wanted OF Jason Bourgeois to hit second. … Mills does not want to put one of his pitchers in a position to lose 20 games. “Hopefully that’s not an issue,” he said. “That wouldn’t be too cool. We have other issues.” … Astros’ RHP Bud Norris, a native of nearby Novato and a Giants fan growing up, will make his first career appearance at AT&T Park on Sunday. Norris is 2-2 over his last 10 starts. He’s 11th in the NL with 151 strikeouts and seventh in strikeouts per nine innings. … The Giants will send RHP Matt Cain to the mound on Sunday. He’s 1-3 in seven appearances, six starts, against the Astros and allowed seven runs on nine hits in 2 2-3 innings in his last start against them. … Giants RHP Brian Wilson played catch for the third straight day, reporting some improvement in his right elbow. … Giants IF Pablo Sandoval was replaced by a pinch-hitter for the first time this season. … DeRosa last stole a base on June 25, 2009.

Copyright 2011 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) – Brett Myers has put together several quality outings for the Houston Astros. Unfortunately there’s not a lot to show for it.

Myers allowed one run and two hits during his seven innings Saturday night, but the San Francisco Giants rallied against Fernando Rodriguez in the 10th inning for a 2-1 victory.

“He gave up the one run and one hit the rest of the way,” Astros manager Brad Mills said. “What a job he did. That’s one of the best performances we’ve seen out him. That was outstanding.”

Myers has thrown less than six innings in just three of his 28 starts this season and remains stuck at 3-13.

Myers, who has not won since June 17, matched season lows for runs and hits in the outing. He walked three and struck out seven. Myers is 0-7 over his last 13 starts.

“I just tried to throw strikes,” Myers said. “The first inning I got the ball up and they got the one run.”

Mike Fontenot doubled to lead off the first and scored when Carlos Beltran grounded out to first.

Myers retired 12 of the next 13 hitters and finished strong, striking out two of the last three batters he faced.

Former Astro Jeff Keppinger hit a run-scoring single with two outs in the 10th to chase home the winning run. He has driven in three of the Giants’ four runs the past two days.

“Trying to strike him out is a tough task,” Myers said. “He’ll give up two strikes. You just try to make a quality pitch and hope he hits it at somebody.”

Fernando Rodriguez (2-3) took the loss for the Astros, who reached 90 losses the quickest in franchise history.

“He’s a good hitter and I had thrown everything at him the last few times I faced him,” Rodriguez said. “I hit my spot and he was able to flick it out there. He’s one of those guys you have to battle and hope he makes a mistake.”

Beltran had two hits and drove in a run for the Giants, who have won two straight at home for the first time in over a month.

Carlos Lee had three hits and drove in a run for the Astros, who have lost six of seven.

Eric Surkamp was called up from Double-A Richmond to make the start. A control pitcher, he walked the first batter he faced and three in the first three innings. Surkamp allowed one run on six hits. He walked three and struck out four in his major league debut.

Mark DeRosa, in as part of a double switch, singled with one out and then stole his first base in two years to set up Keppinger’s hit.

Jeremy Affeldt (3-2) got the final two outs of the 10th to earn the win as the Giants were able to keep pace with the Arizona Diamondbacks, who beat the San Diego Padres to stay three games up in the NL West.

Fontenot was the only Giant to venture any farther than second base until the 10th.

The Astros were 1 for 10 with runners in scoring position, with Lee’s double driving in the tying run in the fifth. Houston stranded 10 runners.

NOTES: OF Nate Schierholtz was placed on the 15-day DL to make room for Surkamp. … Astros IF Jose Altuve led off for the fourth time because Mills wanted OF Jason Bourgeois to hit second. … Mills does not want to put one of his pitchers in a position to lose 20 games. “Hopefully that’s not an issue,” he said. “That wouldn’t be too cool. We have other issues.” … Astros’ RHP Bud Norris, a native of nearby Novato and a Giants fan growing up, will make his first career appearance at AT&T Park on Sunday. Norris is 2-2 over his last 10 starts. He’s 11th in the NL with 151 strikeouts and seventh in strikeouts per nine innings. … The Giants will send RHP Matt Cain to the mound on Sunday. He’s 1-3 in seven appearances, six starts, against the Astros and allowed seven runs on nine hits in 2 2-3 innings in his last start against them. … Giants RHP Brian Wilson played catch for the third straight day, reporting some improvement in his right elbow. … Giants IF Pablo Sandoval was replaced by a pinch-hitter for the first time this season. … DeRosa last stole a base on June 25, 2009.

Copyright 2011 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

“That was amazing,” said Surkamp, who found out he was making the start late Thursday night. “When my name was announced and the fans cheered, it sent chills down my back. To have that kind of support was amazing.”

Mark DeRosa, in as part of a double switch, singled with one out and then stole his first base in two years to set up the game-winner.

“That’s not his forte but he had a good jump,” Giants manager Bruce Bochy said. “Mark has been through a lot and now he’s getting a chance to play a little bit. He got the big hit and scored the winning run.”

Jeremy Affeldt (3-2) got the final two outs of the 10th to earn the win as the Giants were able to keep pace with the Arizona Diamondbacks, who beat the San Diego Padres to stay three games up in the NL West race.

Fernando Rodriguez (2-3) took the loss for the Astros, who reached 90 losses the quickest in franchise history.

“He’s a good hitter and I had thrown everything at him the last few times I faced him,” Rodriguez said of Keppinger. “I hit my spot and he was able to flick it out there. He’s one of those guys you have to battle and hope he makes a mistake.”

Carlos Beltran had two hits and drove in a run for the Giants, who have won two straight at home for the first time in over a month.

Carlos Lee had three hits and drove in a run for the Astros, who have lost six of seven.

Surkamp was called up from Double-A Richmond to make the start. A control pitcher, he walked the first batter he faced and three in the first three innings. Surkamp allowed one run and six hits. He walked three and struck out four.

“The first couple of innings I was rushing too much,” Surkamp said. “I was able to get out of a couple of jams and settled in.”

Houston starter Brett Myers, who has not won since June 17, matched season lows for runs (1) and hits (2) in his seven innings. He walked three and struck out seven. Myers is 0-7 over his last 13 starts.

Mike Fontenot doubled to lead off the first and scored when Beltran grounded out to first.

Myers retired 12 of the next 13 hitters and finished strong, striking out two of the last three batters he faced.

“He was absolutely outstanding,” Astros manager Brad Mills said. “That was one of his best outings.”

Fontenot was the only Giants player to venture any further than second base until the 10th.

The Astros were 1 for 11 with runners in scoring position, with Lee’s double driving in the tying run in the fifth. Houston stranded 10 runners.

NOTES: OF Nate Schierholtz was placed on the 15-day DL to make room for Surkamp. … Astros IF Jose Altuve led off for the fourth time because Mills wanted OF Jason Bourgeois to hit second. … Mills does not want to put one of his pitchers in a position to lose 20 games. “Hopefully that’s not an issue,” he said. “That wouldn’t be too cool. We have other issues.” … Astros RHP Bud Norris, a native of nearby Novato and a Giants fan growing up, will make his first career appearance at AT&T Park on Sunday. Norris is 2-2 over his last 10 starts. He’s 11th in the NL with 151 strikeouts and seventh in strikeouts per nine innings. … The Giants will send RHP Matt Cain to the mound on Sunday. He’s 1-3 in seven appearances, six starts, against the Astros and allowed seven runs and nine hits in 2 2-3 innings in his last start against them. … Giants RHP Brian Wilson played catch for the third straight day, reporting some improvement in his right elbow. … Giants IF Pablo Sandoval was replaced by a pinch-hitter for the first time this season. … DeRosa last stole a base on June 25, 2009.

Copyright 2011 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

SAN FRANCISCO (AP)—Eric Surkamp(notes) said his legs were numb when he almost
threw one of his first pitches to the backstop. He could laugh it off because he
regrouped and pitched effectively in his major league debut.

Jeff Keppinger(notes) hit a run-scoring single with two outs in the bottom of the
10th inning to lift the San Francisco Giants to a 2-1 win over the Houston
Astros on Saturday night.

“That was amazing,” said Surkamp, who found out he was making the start
late Thursday night. “When my name was announced and the fans cheered, it sent
chills down my back. To have that kind of support was amazing.”

Mark DeRosa(notes), in as part of a double switch, singled with one out and then
stole his first base in two years to set up the game-winner.

“That’s not his forte but he had a good jump,” Giants manager Bruce Bochy
said. “Mark has been through a lot and now he’s getting a chance to play a
little bit. He got the big hit and scored the winning run.”

Jeremy Affeldt(notes) (3-2) got the final two outs of the 10th to earn the win as
the Giants were able to keep pace with the Arizona Diamondbacks, who beat the
San Diego Padres to stay three games up in the NL West race.

Fernando Rodriguez(notes) (2-3) took the loss for the Astros, who reached 90 losses
the quickest in franchise history.

“He’s a good hitter and I had thrown everything at him the last few times I
faced him,” Rodriguez said of Keppinger. “I hit my spot and he was able to
flick it out there. He’s one of those guys you have to battle and hope he makes
a mistake.”

Carlos Beltran(notes) had two hits and drove in a run for the Giants, who have won
two straight at home for the first time in over a month.

Carlos Lee(notes) had three hits and drove in a run for the Astros, who have lost
six of seven.

Surkamp was called up from Double-A Richmond to make the start. A control
pitcher, he walked the first batter he faced and three in the first three
innings. Surkamp allowed one run and six hits. He walked three and struck out
four.

“The first couple of innings I was rushing too much,” Surkamp said. “I
was able to get out of a couple of jams and settled in.”

Houston starter Brett Myers(notes), who has not won since June 17, matched season
lows for runs (1) and hits (2) in his seven innings. He walked three and struck
out seven. Myers is 0-7 over his last 13 starts.

Mike Fontenot(notes) doubled to lead off the first and scored when Beltran grounded
out to first.

Myers retired 12 of the next 13 hitters and finished strong, striking out
two of the last three batters he faced.

“He was absolutely outstanding,” Astros manager Brad Mills(notes) said. “That
was one of his best outings.”

Fontenot was the only Giants player to venture any further than second base
until the 10th.

The Astros were 1 for 11 with runners in scoring position, with Lee’s double
driving in the tying run in the fifth. Houston stranded 10 runners.

NOTES: OF Nate Schierholtz(notes) was placed on the 15-day DL to make room for
Surkamp. … Astros IF Jose Altuve(notes) led off for the fourth time because Mills
wanted OF Jason Bourgeois(notes) to hit second. … Mills does not want to put one of
his pitchers in a position to lose 20 games. “Hopefully that’s not an issue,”
he said. “That wouldn’t be too cool. We have other issues.” … Astros RHP Bud
Norris(notes), a native of nearby Novato and a Giants fan growing up, will make his
first career appearance at AT&T Park on Sunday. Norris is 2-2 over his last 10
starts. He’s 11th in the NL with 151 strikeouts and seventh in strikeouts per
nine innings. … The Giants will send RHP Matt Cain(notes) to the mound on Sunday.
He’s 1-3 in seven appearances, six starts, against the Astros and allowed seven
runs and nine hits in 2 2-3 innings in his last start against them. … Giants
RHP Brian Wilson(notes) played catch for the third straight day, reporting some
improvement in his right elbow. … Giants IF Pablo Sandoval(notes) was replaced by a
pinch-hitter for the first time this season. … DeRosa last stole a base on
June 25, 2009.

Read More: mlb, baseball, att park, nl central, bruce bochy, nl west, nl pennant race, walk off win, nl wild card, Santiago Casilla (P – SFG), Brett Myers (P – HOU), Jeff Keppinger (2B – SFG), Jeremy Affeldt (P – SFG), Mike Fontenot (SS – SFG), Mark DeRosa (3B – SFG), Carlos Beltran (RF – SFG), Guillermo Mota (P – SFG), Matt Cain (P – SFG), Fernando Rodriguez (P – HOU), Bud Norris (P – HOU), Eric Surkamp (P – SFG), San Francisco Giants, Houston Astros, Houston Astros at San Francisco Giants, Aug 27, 2011 6:05 PM PDT

It’s that time of year that San Francisco Giants fans are used to seeing a little AT&T Park magic, and boy do the G-Men need some magic right now. And behind their call-up starter Eric Surkamp making his MLB debut, San Francisco forced extra innings with the Houston Astros, setting the scene for Jeff Keppinger to get the walk off hit in the bottom of the 10th as the Giants triumphed 2-1 in 10 innings. 

Surkamp took a no decision in his first appearance in the Show, lasting six innings on the night with one earned run, six hits, three walks, and four strikeouts. He remained agressive out on the mound, getting into some trouble in the first and third innings which he would eventually get out of. Aside from Carlos Lee’s RBI double in the fifth, Surkamp was on point and rather impressive in his MLB debut. The Giants bullpen was brilliant once again, holding the ‘Stros to one hit combined for the last four innings as Guillermo Mota, Santiago Casilla and Jeremy Affeldt held down the fort, with Affledt notching his third win of the season. 

Carlos Beltran got the Giants started with an RBI groundout in the first, finishing the night 2-4. Mike Fontenot finished 1-4 with a double, but it was Jeff Keppinger’s walkout hit that was the story of the game. It was all set up by Mark DeRosa after coming in during a double switch, starting the ralliy in the bottom of the 10th with a single. He then proceeded to steal second base, his first of the year (and first since September 2009), getting in postion to score. 

Brett Myers also took a no decision for the Astros, keeping the Giants to only two hits in seven innings, along with three walks and seven strikeouts. Fernando Rodriguez took the loss. 

With the win the Giants move to 71-62 on the year. Full box score can be found here. 

San Francisco will send out Matt Cain (10-9 2.90 ERA) for the series win Sunday, facing Bud Norris (6-8 3.73 ERA) for Houston. First pitch is at 1:05 pm PT with coverage on CSN Bay Area and KNBR 680 AM.

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) – Jeff Keppinger hit a run-scoring single with two outs in the bottom of the 10th inning to lift the San Francisco Giants to a 2-1 win over the Houston Astros on Saturday night.

Mark DeRosa, in as part of a double switch, singled with one out and then stole his first base in two years to set up the game-winner.

Jeremy Affeldt (3-2) got the final two outs of the 10th to earn the win.

Fernando Rodriguez (2-3) took the loss.

Carlos Beltran had two hits and drove in a run for the Giants, who have won two straight at home for the first time in over a month.

Carlos Lee had three hits and drove in a run for the Astros, who have lost six of seven.

Eric Surkamp was called up from Double-A Richmond to make the start. A control pitcher, he walked the first batter he faced and three in the first three innings. Surkamp allowed one run on six hits. He walked three and struck out four in his major league debut.

Houston starter Brett Myers, who has not won since June 17, matched season lows for runs (1) and hits (2) in his seven innings. He walked three and struck out seven. Myers is 0-7 over his last 13 starts.

Mike Fontenot doubled to lead off the first and scored when Beltran grounded out to first.

Myers retired 12 of the next 13 hitters he faced and finished strong, striking out two of the last three batters he faced.

Fontenot was the only Giants player to venture any further than second base until the 10th.

The Astros were 1 for 11 with runners in scoring position, with Lee’s double driving in the tying run in the fifth. Houston stranded 10 runners.

NOTES: OF Nate Schierholtz was placed on the 15-day DL to make room for Surkamp. … Astros IF Jose Altuve led off for the fourth time because manager Brad Mills wanted OF Jason Bourgeois to hit second. … Mills does not want to put one of his pitchers in a position to lose 20 games. “Hopefully that’s not an issue,” he said. “That wouldn’t be too cool. We have other issues.” … Astros’ RHP Bud Norris, a native of nearby Novato and a Giants fan growing up, will make his first career appearance at AT&T Park on Sunday. Norris is 2-2 over his last 10 starts. He’s 11th in the NL with 151 strikeouts and seventh in strikeouts per nine innings. … The Giants will send RHP Matt Cain to the mound on Sunday. He’s 1-3 in seven appearances, six starts, against the Astros and allowed seven runs on nine hits in 2 2-3 innings in his last start against them. … Giants RHP Brian Wilson played catch for the third straight day, reporting some improvement in his right elbow. … IF Pablo Sandoval was replaced by a pinch hitter for the first time this season. … DeRosa last stole a base on June 25, 2009.

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) – Eric Surkamp said his legs were numb when he almost threw one of his first pitches to the backstop. He could laugh it off because he regrouped and pitched effectively in his major league debut.

Jeff Keppinger hit a run-scoring single with two outs in the bottom of the 10th inning to lift the San Francisco Giants to a 2-1 win over the Houston Astros on Saturday night.

“That was amazing,” said Surkamp, who found out he was making the start late Thursday night. “When my name was announced and the fans cheered, it sent chills down my back. To have that kind of support was amazing.”

Mark DeRosa, in as part of a double switch, singled with one out and then stole his first base in two years to set up the game-winner.

“That’s not his forte but he had a good jump,” Giants manager Bruce Bochy said. “Mark has been through a lot and now he’s getting a chance to play a little bit. He got the big hit and scored the winning run.”

Jeremy Affeldt (3-2) got the final two outs of the 10th to earn the win as the Giants were able to keep pace with the Arizona Diamondbacks, who beat the San Diego Padres to stay three games up in the NL West race.

Fernando Rodriguez (2-3) took the loss for the Astros, who reached 90 losses the quickest in franchise history.

“He’s a good hitter and I had thrown everything at him the last few times I faced him,” Rodriguez said of Keppinger. “I hit my spot and he was able to flick it out there. He’s one of those guys you have to battle and hope he makes a mistake.”

Carlos Beltran had two hits and drove in a run for the Giants, who have won two straight at home for the first time in over a month.

Carlos Lee had three hits and drove in a run for the Astros, who have lost six of seven.

Surkamp was called up from Double-A Richmond to make the start. A control pitcher, he walked the first batter he faced and three in the first three innings. Surkamp allowed one run and six hits. He walked three and struck out four.

“The first couple of innings I was rushing too much,” Surkamp said. “I was able to get out of a couple of jams and settled in.”

Houston starter Brett Myers, who has not won since June 17, matched season lows for runs (1) and hits (2) in his seven innings. He walked three and struck out seven. Myers is 0-7 over his last 13 starts.

Mike Fontenot doubled to lead off the first and scored when Beltran grounded out to first.

Myers retired 12 of the next 13 hitters and finished strong, striking out two of the last three batters he faced.

“He was absolutely outstanding,” Astros manager Brad Mills said. “That was one of his best outings.”

Fontenot was the only Giants player to venture any further than second base until the 10th.

The Astros were 1 for 11 with runners in scoring position, with Lee’s double driving in the tying run in the fifth. Houston stranded 10 runners.

NOTES: OF Nate Schierholtz was placed on the 15-day DL to make room for Surkamp. … Astros IF Jose Altuve led off for the fourth time because Mills wanted OF Jason Bourgeois to hit second. … Mills does not want to put one of his pitchers in a position to lose 20 games. “Hopefully that’s not an issue,” he said. “That wouldn’t be too cool. We have other issues.” … Astros RHP Bud Norris, a native of nearby Novato and a Giants fan growing up, will make his first career appearance at AT&T Park on Sunday. Norris is 2-2 over his last 10 starts. He’s 11th in the NL with 151 strikeouts and seventh in strikeouts per nine innings. … The Giants will send RHP Matt Cain to the mound on Sunday. He’s 1-3 in seven appearances, six starts, against the Astros and allowed seven runs and nine hits in 2 2-3 innings in his last start against them. … Giants RHP Brian Wilson played catch for the third straight day, reporting some improvement in his right elbow. … Giants IF Pablo Sandoval was replaced by a pinch-hitter for the first time this season. … DeRosa last stole a base on June 25, 2009.

Copyright 2011 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

When he walked into the visiting clubhouse at Coors Field on Wednesday morning, Wandy Rodriguez didn’t know if he was coming or going.

“I thought about it a lot (Tuesday) night,” Rodriguez said through an interpreter. “I didn’t know if I’d be over here or over there.”

He got his answer after the game. Rodriguez isn’t going anywhere. One day after he was claimed off waivers by the Rockies, the Astros pulled him back, ending any notion of Colorado acquiring a left-hander with a 9-9 record on a team that stands 46 games below .500.

So how realistic was it to think that Rodriguez could have landed in purple pinstripes? Not realistic at all given the Astros’ nonrelenting trade demands for a top prospect.

The Rockies were willing to assume all three years and $36 million remaining on Rodriguez’s contract after this season. But the Astros, according to sources, also wanted Double-A catcher Wilin Rosario or Double-A left-hander Drew Pomeranz, the key piece in the Ubaldo Jimenez trade.

The Rockies countered by offering Jason Hammel, but that wasn’t about to get the deal done. In the end, the Rockies balked at Houston’s asking price and the Astros, in full-scale rebuilding mode, weren’t willing to bail on Rodriguez’s contract.

This wasn’t the first time the Astros had been down these roads with a big-name player in 2011. Houston general manager Ed Wade insisted into the 11th hour that outfielder Hunter Pence wouldn’t be dealt at the trading deadline, only to ship him to Philadelphia at the last moment.

This time, Wade told MLB.com that he didn’t anticipate Rodriguez moving, and it became official late in the day.

Said Wade, “I don’t predict what could happen, but my gut tells me at this point there’s no reason to believe that Wandy will be pitching anywhere other than wherever we’re playing in five days, which is Houston.”

Was Rodriguez preoccupied on the mound Wednesday afternoon, what with the teams going back and forth in trade discussions before today’s 11 a.m. deadline?

“No, not at all,” Rodriguez said.

Before getting word of the Astros’ decision, Rodriguez was asked if he wanted the deal to go through, what with the Rockies willing to absord his contract.

“That’s a really hard question for me,” he said. “I don’t make the decisions. If I go, I go. That’s all I can say.”

Jim Armstrong: 303-954-1269 or jmarmstrong@denverpost.com

DENVER — The Colorado Rockies know the odds are against them making another run at the playoffs. History and a strong homestand have them believing they can win the NL West.

Troy Tulowitzki scored from third on a wild pitch in the bottom of the 10th inning and the Rockies beat the Houston Astros 7-6 on Wednesday to complete a three-game sweep.

Mark Ellis had four hits, and Tulowitzki and Carlos Gonzalez each homered for the Rockies, who have won five straight for the first time since April 15.

The streak moved the Rockies eight games behind first-place Arizona. After making late-season runs in 2007 and ’09 to reach the postseason, they feel they can overcome the deficit.

“We’ve done it before. If one thing’s in our favor, of all the teams, we’ve been here before,” Tulowitzki said. “We have to use that to our advantage. It’s still a longshot, but if anybody can do it, it’ll be us.”

After taking four of six games against Florida and Los Angeles, the Rockies earned a hard-fought sweep of the Astros on a wild finish.

Tulowitzki reached on a one-out walk and went to third on Jonathan Herrera’s single to center. After an intentional walk to Kevin Kouzmanoff, reliever Aneury Rodriguez (1-5) uncorked a wild pitch to Eliezer Alfonzo and Tulowitzki trotted home with the winning run.

“It’s kind of a weird way to win a game but we’ll take it,” Tulowitzki said. “Any win we can get we’ll take it.”

The win overshadowed Colorado facing Houston starter Wandy Rodriguez. Sources told ESPN earlier Wednesday that Rodriguez had been claimed off waivers by Colorado. However, sources told ESPN on Wednesday evening the Astros had taken Rodriguez off waivers, meaning he would stay on Houston’s roster for the rest of the season. The deadline to make a deal is 1 p.m. Thursday, or the Astros can let Rodriguez clear waivers, which would allow the Rockies to acquire him.

Rodriguez said the uncertainty didn’t bother him Wednesday.

“I thought about it a lot (Tuesday) night,” he said. “I didn’t know if I would be pitching here or over there.”

The Rockies said it wasn’t odd facing a possible teammate.

“We’d welcome him. Obviously some things have to fall into place,” Tulowitzki said. “He’s a proven pitcher at this level and he’d be a nice addition. At the same time if we can’t come to something, what we have in this locker room is still good enough to make a run.”

The Astros gave Rodriguez some early support against Rockies starter Aaron Cook, scoring twice in the first on an RBI double by Carlos Lee and a single by Brian Bogusevic.

Colorado responded with four in the bottom of the inning, capped by Tulowitzki’s two-run homer, his 26th of the year.

Houston tied it in the second. Clint Barmes led off with his ninth homer, Carlos Corporan tripled and Rodriquez singled to right. The Astros took a 5-4 lead on Jimmy Paredes’ RBI groundout in the fourth.

Gonzalez gave the Rockies a 6-5 lead with a two-run homer in the fourth, his 23rd. Houston tied it on Paredes’ RBI single in the fifth.

Rodriguez allowed six runs, four earned, on 10 hits, struck out two and walked four in six innings.

Cook was going for his second straight win at Coors Field this season. He lasted just five innings, allowing six runs, five earned, on 11 hits.

Matt Belisle (9-4), the Rockies’ fifth pitcher, got the win to send them west with something to play for.

“Now because of some of the things that are taking place this becomes a very interesting nine-game road trip,” manager Jim Tracy said.

DENVER (AP)—The Colorado Rockies know the odds are against them making
another run at the playoffs. History and a strong homestand have them believing
they can win the NL West.

Troy Tulowitzki(notes) scored from third on a wild pitch in the bottom of the 10th
inning and the Rockies beat the Houston Astros 7-6 on Wednesday to complete a
three-game sweep.

Mark Ellis(notes) had four hits, and Tulowitzki and Carlos Gonzalez(notes) each homered
for the Rockies, who have won five straight for the first time since April 15.

The streak moved the Rockies eight games behind first-place Arizona. After
making late-season runs in 2007 and ’09 to reach the postseason, they feel they
can overcome the deficit.

“We’ve done it before. If one thing’s in our favor, of all the teams, we’ve
been here before,” Tulowitzki said. “We have to use that to our advantage.
It’s still a longshot, but if anybody can do it, it’ll be us.”

After taking four of six games against Florida and Los Angeles, the Rockies
earned a hard-fought sweep of the Astros on a wild finish.

Tulowitzki reached on a one-out walk and went to third on Jonathan Herrera’s(notes)
single to center. After an intentional walk to Kevin Kouzmanoff(notes), reliever Aneury
Rodriguez(notes) (1-5) uncorked a wild pitch to Eliezer Alfonzo(notes) and Tulowitzki trotted
home with the winning run.

“It’s kind of a weird way to win a game but we’ll take it,” Tulowitzki
said. “Any win we can get we’ll take it.”

The win overshadowed Colorado facing Houston starter Wandy Rodriguez(notes).
Multiple media outlets reported Tuesday that Rodriguez was claimed off waivers
by Colorado.

The Houston Chronicle reported that after Wednesday’s game the Astros pulled
Rodriguez off waivers when they couldn’t work out a trade with the Rockies.

Rodriguez said the uncertainty didn’t bother him Wednesday.

“I thought about it a lot (Tuesday) night,” he said. “I didn’t know if I
would be pitching here or over there.”

The Rockies said it wasn’t odd facing a possible teammate.

“Not at all,” Tulowitzki said. “It’s part of the business and we know
what’s going on.”

The Astros gave Rodriguez some early support against Rockies starter Aaron
Cook(notes), scoring twice in the first on an RBI double by Carlos Lee(notes) and a single by
Brian Bogusevic(notes).

Colorado responded with four in the bottom of the inning, capped by
Tulowitzki’s two-run homer, his 26th of the year.

Houston tied it in the second. Clint Barmes(notes) led off with his ninth homer,
Carlos Corporan(notes) tripled and Rodriquez singled to right. The Astros took a 5-4
lead on Jimmy Paredes’(notes) RBI groundout in the fourth.

Gonzalez gave the Rockies a 6-5 lead with a two-run homer in the fourth, his
23rd. Houston tied it on Paredes’ RBI single in the fifth.

Rodriguez allowed six runs, four earned, on 10 hits, struck out two and
walked four in six innings.

Cook was going for his second straight win at Coors Field this season. He
lasted just five innings, allowing six runs, five earned, on 11 hits.

Matt Belisle(notes) (9-4), the Rockies’ fifth pitcher, got the win to send them
west with something to play for.

“Now because of some of the things that are taking place this becomes a
very interesting nine-game road trip,” manager Jim Tracy said.

NOTES: Gonzalez extended his hit streak to 12 games. He has an RBI in nine
straight games. … Before the game, the Rockies called up Kouzmanoff and
started him at third base. Colorado optioned INF Chris Nelson(notes) to make room for
Kouzmanoff. … Following the game the Astros recalled RHP J.A. Happ(notes) from Triple
A and optioned outfielder J.B. Shuck(notes). Happ will start Friday against the Giants.
.. The Rockies will open a nine-game road trip Friday in Los Angeles. RHP Esmil
Rogers(notes) will face the Dodgers for the second time in six days. The Astros head to
San Francisco to start a four-game weekend series against the Giants. RHP Henry
Sosa(notes) will start the opener.

Mark Ellis had four hits, and Tulowitzki and Carlos Gonzalez each homered for the Rockies, who have won five straight for the first time since April 15.

The streak moved the Rockies eight games behind first-place Arizona. After making late-season runs in 2007 and ‘09 to reach the postseason, they feel they can overcome the deficit.

“We’ve done it before. If one thing’s in our favor, of all the teams, we’ve been here before,” Tulowitzki said. “We have to use that to our advantage. It’s still a longshot, but if anybody can do it, it’ll be us.”

After taking four of six games against Florida and Los Angeles, the Rockies earned a hard-fought sweep of the Astros on a wild finish.

Tulowitzki reached on a one-out walk and went to third on Jonathan Herrera’s single to center. After an intentional walk to Kevin Kouzmanoff, reliever Aneury Rodriguez (1-5) uncorked a wild pitch to Eliezer Alfonzo and Tulowitzki trotted home with the winning run.

“It’s kind of a weird way to win a game but we’ll take it,” Tulowitzki said. “Any win we can get we’ll take it.”

The win overshadowed Colorado facing Houston starter Wandy Rodriguez. Multiple media outlets reported Tuesday that Rodriguez was claimed off waivers by Colorado.

The Houston Chronicle reported that after Wednesday’s game the Astros pulled Rodriguez off waivers when they couldn’t work out a trade with the Rockies.

Rodriguez said the uncertainty didn’t bother him Wednesday.

“I thought about it a lot (Tuesday) night,” he said. “I didn’t know if I would be pitching here or over there.”

The Rockies said it wasn’t odd facing a possible teammate.

“Not at all,” Tulowitzki said. “It’s part of the business and we know what’s going on.”

The Astros gave Rodriguez some early support against Rockies starter Aaron Cook, scoring twice in the first on an RBI double by Carlos Lee and a single by Brian Bogusevic.

Colorado responded with four in the bottom of the inning, capped by Tulowitzki’s two-run homer, his 26th of the year.

Houston tied it in the second. Clint Barmes led off with his ninth homer, Carlos Corporan tripled and Rodriquez singled to right. The Astros took a 5-4 lead on Jimmy Paredes’ RBI groundout in the fourth.

Gonzalez gave the Rockies a 6-5 lead with a two-run homer in the fourth, his 23rd. Houston tied it on Paredes’ RBI single in the fifth.

Rodriguez allowed six runs, four earned, on 10 hits, struck out two and walked four in six innings.

Cook was going for his second straight win at Coors Field this season. He lasted just five innings, allowing six runs, five earned, on 11 hits.

Matt Belisle (9-4), the Rockies’ fifth pitcher, got the win to send them west with something to play for.

“Now because of some of the things that are taking place this becomes a very interesting nine-game road trip,” manager Jim Tracy said.

NOTES: Gonzalez extended his hit streak to 12 games. He has an RBI in nine straight games. … Before the game, the Rockies called up Kouzmanoff and started him at third base. Colorado optioned INF Chris Nelson to make room for Kouzmanoff. … Following the game the Astros recalled RHP J.A. Happ from Triple A and optioned outfielder J.B. Shuck. Happ will start Friday against the Giants. .. The Rockies will open a nine-game road trip Friday in Los Angeles. RHP Esmil Rogers will face the Dodgers for the second time in six days. The Astros head to San Francisco to start a four-game weekend series against the Giants. RHP Henry Sosa will start the opener.

Copyright 2011 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Read More: Wandy Rodriguez (P – HOU), Colorado Rockies, Houston Astros

The Houston Astros recently placed starting pitcher Wandy Rodriguez on waivers, and before long, there was a bite, as Rodriguez was claimed by the Colorado Rockies. Attention then turned to whether or not the Astros and Rockies would agree to a deal.

It seemed like a long shot, though, and now Richard Justice issues confirmation that nothing’s going to happen:

Astros pull Wandy Rodriguez back from waivers, no trade discussions with Rockies. He’s with the Astros remainder of season at least.

By pulling Rodriguez off waivers, the Astros guarantee that he’ll stay where he is for the rest of the year. The Astros are open to the idea of trading Rodriguez, but they wanted more from the Rockies than the Rockies were willing to give. It was true with the Rodriguez trade negotiations at the deadline, and it’s true with the Rodriguez trade negotiations now.

Of course, you should expect the Astros to re-visit the trade market this offseason, when they’ll be free to negotiate with all 29 other teams, and when there will be a great demand for starting pitching. Wandy Rodriguez is an Astros pitcher now, but check again in December.

DENVER (AP) — Troy Tulowitzki scored from third on a wild pitch in the bottom of the 10th inning and the Colorado Rockies beat the Houston Astros 7-6 on Wednesday to complete a three-game sweep. Tulowitzki reached on a one-out walk and went to third on Jonathan Herrera’s single to center. After an intentional walk to Kevin Kouzmanoff, reliever Aneury Rodriguez (1-5) uncorked a wild pitch to Eliezer Alfonzo and Tulowitzki trotted home with the winning run. Mark Ellis had four hits, and Tulowitzki and Carlos Gonzalez each homered for the Rockies, who have won five straight for the first time since April 15. Clint Barmes homered and Brian Bogusevic had three hits for Houston, which has dropped four straight. Matt Belisle (9-4), the Rockies’ fifth pitcher, got the win. Wandy Rodriguez started against a Rockies team trying to acquire him. Multiple media outlets reported Tuesday that Rodriguez was claimed off waivers by Colorado. The deadline to make a deal is 1 p.m. Thursday, or the Astros can let Rodriguez clear waivers, which would allow the Rockies to acquire him. The Astros could also pull Rodriguez off waivers, meaning he would stay on Houston’s roster for the rest of the season. The Astros gave Rodriguez some early support against Rockies starter Aaron Cook, scoring twice in the first on an RBI double by Carlos Lee and a single by Bogusevic. Colorado responded with four in the bottom of the inning, capped by Tulowitzki’s two-run homer, his 26th of the year. Houston tied it in the second. Barmes led off with his ninth homer, Carlos Corporan tripled and Rodriquez singled to right. The Astros took a 5-4 lead on Jimmy Paredes’ RBI groundout in the fourth. Gonzalez gave the Rockies a 6-5 lead with a two-run homer in the fourth, his 23rd. Houston tied it on Paredes’ RBI single in the fifth. Rodriguez allowed six runs, four earned, on 10 hits, struck out two and walked four in six innings. Cook was going for his second straight win at Coors Field this season. He lasted just five innings, allowing six runs, five earned, on 11 hits. NOTES: Gonzalez extended his hit streak to 12 games. He has an RBI in nine straight games. … Before the game, the Rockies called up Kouzmanoff and started him at third base. Colorado optioned INF Chris Nelson to make room for Kouzmanoff. … The Rockies will open a nine-game road trip Friday in Los Angeles. RHP Esmil Rogers will face the Dodgers for the second time in six days. The Astros head to San Francisco to start a four-game weekend series against the Giants. RHP Henry Sosa will start the opener.

Read More: Wandy Rodriguez (P – HOU), Aaron Cook (P – COL), Colorado Rockies, Houston Astros, Houston Astros at Colorado Rockies, Aug 24, 2011 1:10 PM MDT

Will the Colorado Rockies make it five victories in a row? After Jonathan Herrera hit a two-run home run to break the 6-6 tie on Tuesday night, the Rockies held on to win, 8-6. It had been nearly two months since the Rockies won four straight games.

If they sweep the Houston Astros on Wednesday, the Rockies will need to do it with Wandy Rodriguez (9-9, 3.31 ERA) throwing against them. Rodriguez may be in a Rockies uniform come Thursday afternoon, as the team placed a waiver claim on him. The Rockies and Astros have until Thursday at 11:00 a.m. to work out a deal or to see Rodriguez pulled off waivers.

Rodriguez is 2-2 with a 2.52 ERA and a 1.12 WHIP in four August starts. He just threw eight shutout innings against the San Francisco in a 6-0 victory on Aug. 19. In his other victory, he came up with six scoreless innings. In his two losses, though, he’s allowed five runs each time (in the second loss only two were earned).

In his career at Coors, Rodriguez is 3-2 in six career starts. He holds a 3.62 ERA and has allowed just one home run in 32 innings.

Aaron Cook (3-7, 5.23 ERA) had the offense with him in his last start, defeating the Marlins, 12-5. He did allowed three runs on nine hits (two home runs), but he went 7-2/3 innings. Cook’s contract comes off the books this offseason, which would make a possible Paulino acquisition a swap on the roster, essentially.

First pitch is scheduled for 1:10 p.m. MT.

For more on the Rockies, visit Purple Row. Check out Crawfish Boxes and SB Nation Houston for more.

By Russ Oates

– Senior Editor

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Aug 22, 2011 – The Colorado Rockies and the Houston Astros face each other for the first time in 2011. As frustrating as the Rockies’ season has been, the Astros have had a season they will want to forget. They are 33.5 games out of first place in the NL Central and have just 42 victories so far. The Rockies, 60-68, have had a comparatively pleasant season against that.

Brett Myers (3-12, 4.72 ERA) has been on the wrong side of the scoreboard too often this season. The Opening Day starter, Myers last won a game on June 17, a 7-3 complete game victory over the Los Angeles Dodgers. In his 11 starts since then, Myers has gone 0-6, but he’s pitched decently in many of those starts. He had just one start that was under six innings pitched (4.1 IP), though in five of those starts he did allow four or more runs.

Colorado has not fared well against Myers in his career. He is 7-0 with a 3.47 ERA in eight career appearances against the Rockies. Six of those starts have come at Coors Field, where he is 5-0 with a 3.92 ERA. But this will be his first start against the Rockies as a member of the Astros.

Jhoulys Chacin (9-10, 3.59 ERA) was the tale of two different pitchers in his last two starts. He threw a gem of an outing against the Cincinnati Reds by allowing two runs in eight innings. He took the loss after the Rockies could put up just one run to the Reds’ two. Then he followed that with five runs surrendered in four innings against the Florida Marlins. This will be just his second start against the Astros, having taken the loss in 2010 after allowing five runs.

First pitch is scheduled for 6:40 p.m. MT.

For more on the Rockies, visit Purple Row. Check out Crawfish Boxes and SB Nation Houston for more.

Read More: Brett Myers (P – HOU), Jhoulys Chacin (P – COL), Colorado Rockies, Houston Astros, Houston Astros at Colorado Rockies, Aug 22, 2011 6:40 PM MDT

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HOUSTON —

The San Francisco Giants had several good chances to beat the Houston Astros. It took them until the 11th inning to find one that worked.

Pablo Sandoval hit a tie-breaking two-run homer with two out in the 11th inning to lead the Giants to a 6-4 victory Sunday.

The score had been tied 4-4 since the fourth inning and the Giants missed a few opportunities to take the lead until Sandoval’s 15th homer off Mark Melancon (6-4).

It’s been tough for the Giants lately. They’ve lost 17 of their last 23 games. The Astros made two outstanding defensive plays to keep the score tied.

“It’s frustrating, especially when you’ve been in a streak like we’ve been in and lost two straight here,” Giants manager Bruce Bochy said. “You’re hoping that somebody comes through but they made two unbelievable defensive plays that saved them. It was a great job on their part.”

Sandoval, playing with nagging injuries, was pleased to get it over.

“I’m tired,” Sandoval said. “I just was looking for a pitch to hit. Now we go home, got a day off and come Tuesday, play hard. I’ve been hurting so I’ll enjoy that day. I just want to play and help team win a game.”

Jeremy Affeldt (2-2) pitched two innings for the victory. He has allowed one earned in 17 1-3 innings since the All-Star break.

The Giants left 12 base runners stranded, including seven over the final five innings. The loss snapped a four-game winning streak for the Astros, equaling their longest of the season.

Brandon Belt hit a three-run homer in the second inning and had a career high four hits.

The Astros kept coming up with big defensive plays to keep the score tied.

“I thought our guys did a great job of battling all the way until the end,” Astros manager Brad Mills said. “It seemed like the leadoff guy got on in every inning. Our guys had to really buckle down and work out of jams, and they did. There were a lot of quality pitches being made.”

The Giants were poised to take the lead in the eighth with the bases loaded and one out. Instead, Chris Stewart hit a fly to left fielder J.D. Martinez, who caught it for the second out and then made a perfect throw to catcher Carlos Corporan, who blocked the plate and tagged Nate Schierholtz sliding into home plate.

San Francisco loaded the bases with two outs in the ninth but Schierholtz flew out to center field to keep the score tied. The Giants left seven runners stranded in the seventh, eighth and ninth.

Aaron Rowand led off the ninth with a single. He took off for second when a pickoff throw got past first baseman Carlos Lee. The ball bounced perfectly off the fence back to second baseman Jose Altuve, who threw out Rowand at second.

“When you’re in one of these streaks, what can go wrong does go wrong,” Bochy said. “They got a break there and throw the guy out at second. There’s nobody out and a man on first, yeah, it’s a tough break.”

Giants starter Dan Runzler made his major league debut as a starter after 71 appearances in relief. He didn’t get out of the second inning. He allowed four runs, walked three and struck out two.

Henry Sosa pitched five innings against his former team but didn’t figure in the outcome.

San Francisco got a quick lead off Sosa on Belt’s 3-run homer for the early lead but the Astros battered Runzler and Guillermo Mota for four runs in the second inning that included four walks.

Runzler yielded a single to Jimmy Paredes and walked Clint Barmes and Jason Michaels to start the second inning. Carlos Corporan hit into a double play, scoring Paredes.

Sosa walked and Jose Altuve had an RBI single to bring on Mota, who walked Jason Bourgeois and J.D. Martinez followed with a two-run single to right field for a 4-3 lead.

Mike Fontenot’s sacrifice fly tied it in the fourth inning.

“We survived it is the best way to put it,” Bochy said. “We’re not too far back. We’re fortunate.”

Notes: The Giants placed closer Brian Wilson on the 15-daydisabled list retroactive to Tuesday with inflammation in his right elbow and recalled RHP Steve Edlefsen from Triple-A Fresno. … The Astros optioned RHP Jordan Lyles to Triple-A Oklahoma City Sunday in anticipation of OF Jordan Schafer coming off the disabled list on Monday. General manager Ed Wade said Lyles would return with the September call ups.