MLB Opening Day 2013 Schedule: Astros Beat Rangers 8-2 In First Game Of MLB Season
The Houston Astros heard all spring that their roster might be the worst in Major League Baseball history and that their move to the American League will cause a drop from last year's paltry 55 wins. On Sunday night the Astros seemed tired of that talk and took out their frustrations on the Texas Rangers, in the form of an 8-2 victory.
Astros designated hitter Carlos Pena said after the game, "To come out with a win is perfect. To be part of it is really cool. To play our rivals here in Texas and to come out on top today, it's a treat."
Pinch hitter Rick Ankiel landed the biggest blow of the night, swatting a three-run home run in the seventh inning that pushed Houston's lead to 7-2 and blew open a tight game.
The Astros supposedly meek lineup mashed against Rangers' starter Matt Harrison, who was 18-11 with a 3.29 ERA in 2012. Sunday night, Harrison lasted five and two thirds of an inning, surrendered six hits and six runs, five of which were earned. He struck out nine batters and walked three in the disappointing performance.
Bo Porter, the Astros new manager and at 40 years old the youngest in baseball, was far from surprised that his team, which as a team makes less than Yankees third baseman Alex Rodriguez, topped Texas.
"It's more about the concepts that we've implemented. They do a great job with the information we provide and it allows them to play with confidence and allows them to play fast."
Former starter Erik Bedard earned an odd save in the win, pitching three and one third innings and finishing the game off.
Despite getting trounced in the opener by their lowly in-state rivals, there was some good news following the defeat. The front office and shortstop Elvis Andrus agreed to a long-term extension for eight years and $120 million, according to reports.
