Myers’ strong start lifts Astros to 4-2 win over Brewers

Myers’ strong start lifts Astros over Brewers

HOUSTON — Brett Myers became the eighth pitcher in 90 years to throw six or more innings in 30 consecutive starts, Carlos Lee drove in the go-ahead run in the seventh inning and the Houston Astros beat the Milwaukee Brewers 4-2 on Monday night.

Myers (12-7) pitched seven strong innings to extend his streak that is the longest since Curt Schilling went at least six innings in 35 straight games to start the 2002 season.

Myers also surpassed 200 innings for the second time in his career. He allowed six hits, one earned run and struck out 10. It was the 14th time in his career with 10 or more strikeouts.

Brandon Kintzler (0-1) took the loss.

Matt Lindstrom got the final three outs for his 23rd save in 29 opportunities.

With the score tied 1-1 in the seventh, pinch-hitter Geoff Blum singled and was sacrificed to second base by Michael Bourn. Jeff Keppinger walked and Hunter Pence struck out before Lee lined a single and pinch runner Jason Bourgeois scored the go-ahead run.

Chris Johnson added an RBI single before Brett Wallace was intentionally walked to load the bases. Tommy Manzella walked, forcing Lee home with the third run of the inning. It was Lee’s 1,000th career run scored.

Bourn singled on the first pitch by Chris Narveson in the first inning. He stole second for his league-leading 50th steal and scored on Keppinger’s double to the left field corner.

Bourn has stolen 50 bases in consecutive seasons.

Corey Hart hit his 28th homer on a Myers fast ball to start the fourth inning and tie the game 1-1. Carlos Gomez hit a RBI single off reliever Mark Melancon in the eighth.

Narveson allowed six hits and one earned run over six innings.

Notes: Since Aug. 1, Brandon Lyon leads the majors with 14 saves in 14 opportunities. The Astros have won six of their last seven games against the Brewers at Minute Maid Park. Prince Fielder missed the game with flu-like symptoms, snapping a string of playing in 327 straight games. It was the longest current streak in the major leagues and a Brewers record. Gomez’s first inning steal gave the Brewers 16 consecutive successful steals.