Bridge Ball

A as in Aardsma
David Aardsma, who last year was the closer for Rice University, out-shined his fellow Houstonian Andy Pettitte to get his first major league win. Actually Aardsma is from Colorado, but he did have 33 friends and family in the stands at Minute Maid Park last night. Aardsma also set aside an even bigger legened of the game last night. Next time they publish the Baseball Encyclopedia, he'll be the first player listed, bumping Henry Aaron to number two.

The game was an example of lost chances for the Astros. Brett Tomko had problems with command especially in the first two innings. He racked up a 62 pitch count in the first two frames, although he only gave up a run early. Key for Tomko was getting Adam Everett and Jeff Bagwell (who looks old) to strike out with the bases loaded in the first. Tomko didn't get an out in the fifth before Cap'tn Hook Alou came out to get the ball. Giants relievers didn't fare much better keeping the Astros off the basepaths. Even Aardsma gave up three hits in his two innings. All-in-all, the Astros left 16 runners on base. Meanwhile Pettitte was finding out what it is like to pitch at the Juice Box. He lasted 5 and a third innings, surrendering 11 hits and six runs. His nemesis? Neifi Perez, who went four for four on the day. Key being a two-out bases-loaded double that cleared the bases in the fourth.

Welcome home Andy.

Roger Clemens goes up against Jerome Williams as the Giants go for the sweep Wednesday.