Houston at Oakland

Everyone keeps waiting for the talented young Houston Astros to turn the ship around. Well, we're still waiting, and waiting and waiting...losing nine of the last 11. That includes six defeats as a favorite. The schedule hasn't helped as they are at the end of a six-game road trip today. Houston's offense ranks #21 in runs scored and batting average, the pitching is #26 in team ERA, and the defense ranks #21 in errors. Houston is a dismal 3-11 on the road to go along with 17-41 run away from home. Astros' righty Doug Fister (1-3, 5.56 ERA) has been terrible, losing each of his last three decisions while allowing 11 runs on 18 hits in 17+ innings. He issued a career-high seven walks in a 3-2 loss to Seattle on Monday. Oakland is home and eighth in baseball in pitching with a 3.59 team ERA. The Athletics have won three of five and have a winning record for the season. Lefty Rich Hill (3-2, 2.42 ERA) has been a terrific acquisition, off a 5-1 victory over Detroit. He has 37 strikeouts and nine walks in 26 innings. Hill also owns a 2-0 career mark against Houston, limiting them to a .178 batting average in his eight appearances. Oakland is 9-4 against a right-handed starter, and the team has won eight of 11 against Houston, including seven of the last eight in this park. Play Oakland.