The Astros defeat the Orioles 14–11, but it was too close.

That game was definitely an experience. I’m still unsure if I should feel relieved, happy, or angry—maybe all three? It had a bit of everything.

Jake Bloss’s Major League debut
Bloss exited early due to right shoulder discomfort
Joey Loperfido likely had the best game of his young career
Jake Meyers continues to demonstrate his value
A nine-run explosion in the sixth inning
Another bullpen meltdown in a season full of them

Bloss’s debut started off well, holding a strong Orioles lineup to two runs in his first 3 2⁄3 innings before leaving with right shoulder discomfort. In a season where pitching depth has been constantly tested, another injured arm is not a great development. Shawn Dubin pitched a solid 2 1⁄3 innings, giving up just one run while striking out three. Unfortunately, Nick Hernandez and Rafael Montero struggled, allowing eight runs in 1 2⁄3 innings.

Fortunately, the lineup compensated, with Meyers hitting a three-run homer in the fifth inning, giving Houston a lead they wouldn’t lose, despite the bullpen’s efforts to blow the game in the later innings. The plan was to rest some of the team’s best relievers, especially since Josh Hader, Ryan Pressly, and Bryan Abreu had already pitched on consecutive nights. Scoring 14 runs was supposed to give the Astros a break. Hernandez and Montero, however, struggled. Abreu had to step in to help close out the game.

Loperfido had the best game of his young career, driving in two runs with three hits.

The nine-run sixth inning was crucial, as the Nationals launched a furious comeback attempt, scoring seven runs in the eighth inning. The lineup did just enough to secure the win for the Astros. Let’s see what happens in Saturday’s game.