KISSIMMEE, Fla. -- Max Scherzer needed 37 pitches to get through the first inning of his second spring training start but allowed just one run Tuesday in the Washington Nationals' 4-2 win over the Houston Astros.
Jose Altuve and George Springer started with singles, and Colby Rasmus singled with one out. After a walk to Carlos Gomez loaded the bases, A.J. Reed grounded to third, and Jason Martinson threw home for the forceout. Scherzer then struck out Jon Singleton.
Scherzer retired the side in order in the second.