Los Angeles @ Houston preview

Last Meeting ( May 7, 2013 ) LA Angels 6, Houston 7

The Houston Astros finally earned their first comeback victory of 2013 in the opening game of the series. The Astros look to build off that when they host the Los Angeles Angels on Wednesday in the middle of a three-game set. Houston was sparked by young outfielders Robbie Grossman, Brandon Barnes and Jimmy Paredes, who combined for three hits and four runs scored in the 7-6 win Tuesday. Jose Altuve moved to the No. 3 spot and notched a pair of hits to raise his average to .338.

The Angels continue to find ways to lose, dropping 10 of their last 13. Los Angeles has not hit as well as expected, but the main problem has been on the mound where it owns a 4.68 ERA. Mark Trumbo has homered in six of eight games and Mike Trout is warming up, going 10-for-28 with three homers and 10 RBIs in the last seven games for the Angels.

TV: 8:10 p.m. ET, KCOP (Los Angeles), Comcast SportsNet Houston

PITCHING MATCHUP: Angels RH Joe Blanton (0-5, 5.97 ERA) vs. Astros RH Bud Norris (3-3, 3.89)

Blanton has pitched better in his last two outings, including Thursday when he allowed three runs (two earned) over in eight innings against Baltimore in a 5-1 loss. The veteran right-hander has surrendered 55 hits over 34 2/3 innings and opponents are batting .353 against him. Blanton is 2-0 all time against Houston with a 2.57 ERA over 28 innings. Carlos Pena is 5-for-10 against Blanton.

Norris has been Houston’s best starter, allowing two earned runs or less in five of his seven starts. After his only poor start, the 28-year-old has rebounded by surrendering six earned runs over 18 innings in his last three – two in seven innings Friday against Detroit without a decision. Norris beat the Angels in Anaheim on April 12, giving up three hits in seven shutout innings. Albert Pujols is 5-for-27 against Norris.

WALK-OFFS

1. Pujols has belted 24 homers in 93 games at Minute Maid Park.

2. Grossman is 9-for-29 with five walks during an eight-game hitting streak.

3. Angels OF Josh Hamilton has no homers and one RBI in his last 20 games.

PREDICTION: Astros 5, Angels 3