Houston Finally Breaks Series Slump

The reeling Astros hadn't won a series in two weeks but finally do so vs. the Mets, who are off to a surprisingly good year. Houston takes the series 2-1, including a 13-inning nail-biter in Game 1. Houston is now a still-lowly 46-57, while the Mets remain over .500 at 55-51.

Game 1: Houston 3, Mets 2 (13 innings)
W: Sambito (6-7)
L: Bernard (2-3)

Houston is in control of this one, 2-1, going into the ninth, despite five walks from erratic Houston ace J.R. Richard in 6.1 innings, led by a two-run tater from Jose Cruz (4). But shaky Houston reliever Ken Forsch gives up a tying run in the ninth on three Mets singles, including an RBI from Elliot Maddox. Houston outfielder Jesus Alou, atoning for a poor bunt in the 10th that fails to move a runner to third with one out, strokes a game-winning single off Dwight Bernard in the bottom of the 13th.

14-year vet Jesus Alou may not play a lot
but he still hits in the clutch.

Game 2: NYM 4, HOU 1
W: Koosman (9-8)
L: Dixon (5-6)
S: Lockwood (18)

Longtime Met Jerry Koosman still has it, overpowering Astros hitters with eight Ks in six innings, while relievers Dale Murray and Skip Lockwood do the rest. Timely doubles from Maddox and John Stearns support the solid pitching.

Game 3: HOU 4, NYM 0
W: Lemongello (7-10)
L: Swan (8-7)

The "good" Mark Lemongello shows up this time (vs. the bad one seen on many other occasions this year), pitching a complete game three-hitter with six Ks. Enos Cabell and Rafael Landestoy both knock in two runs off the Mets Craig Swan.