Astros Still Struggling to Play a Complete Game

It's been almost almost a week since I last posted, so first how 'bout a quick summary of the last 3 games?

The two wins against the Pirates were solid, if ugly. Mike Hampton pitched very well in his Wednesday night start, and if he can give the Astros a high percentage of quality starts, he could win 15 or more games this season. Hampton looks healthy, and I think has realized that he may not be able to overpower hitters as much as he could when he was younger. One good thing to think about: with Hampton missing a lot of time in the last couple of years, he hasn't thrown a ton of innings. Two of his most recent problems have been a bad hamstring and pectoral muscle. With that being said, if he is able to pitch a full season, watch out.

In the Thursday afternoon win, it was nice to see Lance Berkman hit a big homerun, but Chris Sampson's contribution cannot be underestimated. Most 16 pitch at-bats end in success for the hitter, but the former Red Raider battled and was able to retire potential tying run, Freddy Sanchez (who is also a former batting champ).

A win last night could have been huge. I don't think you can really worry too much about Jose Valverde blowing the save. Teams aren't supposed to win when they only have four hits. The double play killed the Astros again (as it always does), but there is still plenty of reason to have hope. Neither Carlos Lee, nor Lance Berkman has gotten to anywhere near mid-season form, and it looks like Lee's hand hasn't fully healed. But fear not, as soon as they can have a game where all facets of the team are playing to potential, this team can still be dangerous. Let's hope they don't wait until August to get things going.