Where would the Astros be without Ronel Blanco? Possibly even in worse shape than right now. Of Houston’s five wins, Blanco has started in three of those victories, including Saturday’s much-needed two-run, six-inning performance against the Rangers. For a team that had a combined 20.93 ERA from its starting pitchers in the previous five games, it was vital for Blanco to provide some stability and he did it again.
But it wasn’t exactly smooth sailing for Blanco, at least in the first couple of innings. The Rangers struck early to start the game, starting with Evan Carter’s two-out walk in the first inning.