Mighty Buccos down the Astros in Three Straight

Pittsburgh looks like it's going to be a difficult team to beat. The Astros lose three straight in the 'Dome.

Game One: Pittsburgh 4, Houston 3 (11 innings)

W: G. Jackson (1-0)

L: Riccelli (0-1)

S: Tekulve (3)

Bruce Kison and the Bucs had an early 3-0 lead, thanks to a three run fourth paced by a double from Dave Parker that scored two. The Astros looked to be going down to defeat until Cesar Cedeno knocked a three-run homer off Kison in the eighth to tie it. J.R. Richard was cruising along with 12 Ks, including six in a row, but the Astros could score no more runs for him. In extras, another Parker double off reliever Frank Riccelli proved the game winner, as Kent Tekulve shut down the Pirates' bats in the extra frames.

Game Two: Pittsburgh 6, Houston 3

W: Blyleven (2-2)

L: Forsch (1-2)

S: Tekulve (4)

The "Dutchman," Bert Blyleven, mowed down Astros hitters and carried a 6-1 lead into the eighth, thanks in part to a two-RBI game from Ed Ott (who had a double) and Tim Foli (who had a key triple). Ken Forsch gave up 10 hits but lasted through eight; the Astros staged a late rally but again couldn't solve Tekulve.

Game Three: Pittsburgh 1, Houston 0

W: Candelaria (2-0)

L: Niekro (1-1)

The Candyman pitched a complete game masterpiece, only allowing six hits and no runner past second. Houston's Joe Niekro was also on his game, giving up only an RBI single from Willie Stargell in the first inning. Houston bats again couldn't produce a big hit.