The Houston Astros bullpen combined with starting pitcher Hunter Brown to pitch 8 hitless innings against the Oakland Athletics on Tuesday night. It was an impressive performance by the Astros, who were able to shut down a powerful Athletics lineup.
Brown was the starter for the Astros and pitched 5 scoreless innings. He allowed just two walks and struck out five batters. Brown was in control throughout his outing, throwing 64 of his 97 pitches for strikes. He was able to keep the Athletics off balance with his mix of fastballs, sliders, and changeups.
The Astros bullpen then took over and continued the hitless streak. Ryan Pressly, Brooks Raley, and Enoli Paredes each pitched an inning in relief. Pressly struck out two batters while Raley and Paredes each struck out one. The Astros bullpen was able to keep the Athletics hitters guessing with their mix of fastballs, sliders, and curveballs.
The Astros were able to complete the 8 hitless innings thanks to some stellar defense. Alex Bregman made a diving catch in the fourth inning to rob Athletics outfielder Stephen Piscotty of a base hit. In the sixth inning, second baseman Jose Altuve made a leaping catch on a line drive off the bat of Athletics third baseman Matt Chapman.
The Astros were able to pull off this impressive feat thanks to the combination of Hunter Brown’s strong start and the bullpen’s ability to keep the Athletics hitters off balance. It was a great team effort by the Astros and a testament to their pitching depth. With this performance, the Astros have shown that they are a force to be reckoned with in the American League West.
