Astros Kick Off Series Against Pirates on Lou Gehrig Day

The Houston Astros are set to continue their nine-game homestand tonight, taking on the Pittsburgh Pirates in the first of a three-game series. With a recent surge that has seen them go 7-3 in their last ten games, the Astros (27-34) look to build on their momentum against their former divisional rivals, the Pirates (32-28).

On the mound for Houston will be right-handed pitcher Mike Burrows, who makes his first start against the Pirates since being acquired from the team this offseason. Burrows, who holds a record of 3-6 with a 5.40 ERA, will face off against the Pirates’ hard-throwing starter Bubba Chandler, who has struggled this season with a 1-6 record and a 4.85 ERA.

This series marks the Astros’ first matchup against the Pirates in Houston since July 2024. Historically, the two teams have split their 18 encounters evenly since the Astros transitioned to the American League in 2013, each claiming nine victories. Overall, the Astros have faced the Pirates 718 times, with a record of 348 wins and 370 losses.

In a poignant moment, the Astros will honor Lou Gehrig Day, raising awareness for ALS. In collaboration with Major League Baseball, players, coaches, and umpires will wear a special “4” decal on their uniforms. Fans can expect pregame ceremonies and informational tables on the concourse to support ALS associations.

Adding to the storyline, Pirates pitching coach Bill Murphy returns to Houston, where he spent a decade with the Astros before joining Pittsburgh. Murphy played a pivotal role in the Astros’ World Series championship in 2022 and has contributed significantly to the team’s pitching development.

The Astros have also made several roster moves ahead of tonight’s game. Left-handed pitcher Josh Hader has been reinstated from the 60-day injured list, while infielder Carlos Correa has been transferred to the same list. Outfielder Zach Cole has been recalled from Triple-A, and infielder Braden Shewmake has been placed on the 10-day injured list due to a right adductor strain.

Astros starters have performed well recently, boasting a combined ERA of 3.33 over the last 16 games, the best opponent batting average in the league at .173, and ranking among the top teams in both WHIP and ERA. Right-handed pitcher Spencer Arrighetti has been a standout, making a strong case for the AL Pitcher of the Month award for May with a 4-1 record and a remarkable 0.93 ERA.

In other highlights, rookie pitcher Alimber Santa has made history by retiring 15 consecutive batters in his first three MLB appearances, setting a franchise record. Meanwhile, designated hitter Yordan Alvarez leads the majors in total bases and is tied for the AL lead in home runs, showcasing his powerful hitting.

As the Astros prepare to face the Pirates, they will look to maintain their defensive prowess, having committed the fewest errors in the American League this season. With Joey Loperfido currently on a minor league rehab assignment, the team is optimistic about his return following a right quad strain.

Fans can tune in to tonight’s game at 7:10 p.m. CT, broadcasted on Space City Home Network, with radio coverage on KTRH 740 AM and KBME 790 AM.

Note: This recap is an independently written summary based on publicly available reporting.