|
 Stephen Vogt ripped a three-run double in the eighth as the
Athletics improved to 7-3 versus Houston in 2014 while winning 10 of
their last 12 home contests overall. Former Astro Jed Lowrie and
Derek Norris each had an RBI single among their three hits apiece
and Josh Donaldson also had a run-scoring single in the rout.
Oakland enjoyed a 4-1 lead and quickly loaded the bases in the sixth
against starter Scott Feldman (4-8) before Moss deposited a
first-pitch fastball from reliever Anthony Bass over the wall in
right field. Moss, who has a team-leading 23rd homers - and four in
eight games, also belted grand slams May 30 and June 8.
 The blast closed the book on Feldman, who suffered his sixth loss in
seven decisions after permitting six runs on nine hits in 5 1/3
innings. Chris Carter launched his 20th homer in the fourth, but
Houston mustered little else en route to falling for the fifth time
in seven outings.
Samardzija (4-8) benefited from the offensive explosion to improve
to 5-2 in his career versus Houston. The 29-year-old allowed one run
on five hits while striking out six.
[to top of second column] |
GAME NOTEBOOK: Moss is the first member of the Athletics to record
three grand slams in a season since Miguel Tejada in 2001. The team
record is four, set by Jason Giambi in 2000. ... Oakland designated
struggling RHP Jim Johnson for assignment prior to the game.
Johnson, who posted a 4-2 mark with a gaudy 6.92 ERA, allowed four
runs on as many hits and did not retire a batter in Wednesday's 9-7
win. ... The Athletics open a six-game road trip by beginning a
three-game set in Texas on Friday. Houston opens a 10-game homestand
by hosting Miami on Friday.
[© 2014 Thomson Reuters. All rights
reserved.]
Copyright 2014 Reuters. All rights reserved. This material may not be published,
broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
 |
