Adam Everett pounded a pair of run-scoring doubles, including driving in the tying run in the seventh after an 11-pitch battle, to lead the Astros to a 5-3 victory in the middle game of the interleague series against the Twins at Minute Maid Park.
With the game knotted 3-3 in the eighth with two outs, Preston Wilson singled and Eric Munson walked before Jason Lane dropped a pop fly in front of the rightfielder to plate the go ahead run. Everett followed with his second double.
Wandy Rodriguez started strong, punching out two in the first inning, but was touched for a pair of runs in the second, and another in the fourth. He lasted 6 2/3 and was relieved after allowing a base hit by the pitcher and a walk. Chad Qualls got out of the jamb, keeping the game close. Dan Wheeler threw a perfect eighth and Brad Lidge earned his 19th save by striking out the side in the ninth.
Lance Berkman took aim at the Crawford’s and gave the Astros the early lead in the first as his opposite field drive just reached the seats for his 20th dinger of the year and his 200th of his career.
Chris Burke cranked a double off the scoreboard and scored on a sac fly by Mike Lamb in the sixth to bring the Astros closer, 3-2.
Tomorrow nights game at 7:05 will be the much anticipated return of one Roger Clemens , after showcasing around the Astros minor league system for the last three weeks. He will match up with Francisco Liriano.