Houston @ Atlanta preview
Turner Field
Last Meeting ( Aug 4, 2012 ) Houston 3, Atlanta 2
The Atlanta Braves experienced a costly misstep in their run toward the top of the National League East. The lowly Houston Astros provided the speed bump as Justin Maxwell recorded his second career multi-homer game and collected a career-high four hits in Saturday's 3-2 triumph. The Astros won for only the fourth time in 33 contests while the Braves' second loss in 11 outings dropped them three games behind NL East-leading Washington.
Dan Uggla's two-run single was all that was mustered offensively by Atlanta, which will look to win Sunday's rubber match. Chipper Jones, who has hit safely in 28 of his last 32 games, is 2-for-5 in his career versus Sunday starter Bud Norris. Atlanta will counter with Kris Medlen, who has admitted he's working on his hitting skills now that he has returned to the starting rotation.
TV: 1:35 p.m. ET, FS Houston, SportSouth (Atlanta)
PITCHING MATCHUP: Braves RH Bud Norris (5-8, 5.02 ERA) vs. Braves RH Kris Medlen (2-1, 2.43)
Norris has had a difficult time getting out of his funk. The 27-year-old, who hasn't won since May 21, recorded a quality start in his last outing - but settled for a no-decision versus Milwaukee on Monday. Norris dropped his lone career decision to the Braves.
Medlen made the most of his first start by tossing five solid innings in a 7-1 triumph over Miami on Tuesday. The 26-year-old yielded one run and scattered four hits for Atlanta. Medlen has made two relief appearances versus Houston - including one this season - but has yet to record a decision.
WALK-OFFS
1. Uggla has hit safely in four straight games and six of his last seven. The Braves second baseman has eight RBIs during the seven-game stretch.
2. Houston closer Francisco Cordero will consult with a doctor next week about the inflammation of his right big toe. The injury has been diagnosed as right foot sesamoiditis.
3. Astros OF Ben Francisco drew his second straight start in place of Steve Pearce, who is nursing tightness in the pressure point in neck. Manager Brad Mills said he felt optimistic that Pearce will play Sunday.