Convenience Big Store: For Astros, a loss in Seattle and a question of who's on first

Sale Extended: 6 MONTHS FOR 99¢
Don't miss our best offer on exclusive access.
Act Now

Today's starting lineup

The Astros opened a key series in Seattle against the first-place Mariners with a 3-2 loss and a question of who's on first.

The loss came after Framber Valdez allowed three runs in the first inning before settling down. Houston's bats couldn't do much other than a two-run fifth inning as the Astros fell to 4½ games behind the Mariners.

One of Houston's runs came from the bat of first baseman José Abreu, who returned after a four-week detour to the minors to find his swing. The Astros had gone 15-10 in Abreu's absence.

The question is how often will Abreu be in the lineup. Manager Joe Espada said "we've got to see" if Abreu will be the everyday first baseman.

In college baseball, the NCAA saw fit to put Texas A&M and Texas in the same regional. The No. 3 Aggies will host the Longhorns along with Grambling and Louisiana this weekend. The rivals put on a memorable show in softball when paired in a super regional. If they meet in baseball, the Longhorns are the third seed in the region so nothing is guaranteed, it could certainly be fun.

For the third consecutive year, Texans special teams coach Frank Ross took time to help homeless men in Houston with a haircut, food and a fresh shower. Several Texans players, including fullback Troy Hairston, receiver Ben Skowronek, cornerback Desmond King and linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair, showed up to help out and share their stories.

Sports lost one of its most colorful figures on Monday with the passing of former UCLA and NBA star Bill Walton. Jonathan Feigen reflects on Walton's zest for life as a player and broadcaster.

Stat of the day: 4. Number of losses in 116 matches in the French Open by Rafael Nadal, who fell in the first round on Monday to Alexander Zverev in what could be his final appearance at Roland Garros.

Reid Laymance, Sports Editor

reid.laymance@houstonchronicle.com

Astros / MLB

Houston Astros' José Abreu is greeted by first base coach Dave Clark after hitting an RBI single to score Jake Meyers against the Seattle Mariners during the fifth inning of a baseball game, Monday, May 27, 2024, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson)

Photo by: Lindsey Wasson/Associated Press

Who's on first? José Abreu's return creates lineup questions

José Abreu made his return to the Astros' lineup on Monday in Seattle, but how often he will play is still uncertain.

Mariners 3, Astros 2: The Astros couldn't overcome a 3-run deficit in first inning and start key series with a loss.
Middle girth: Astros reliever Tayler Scott has increased the usage of his splitter and four-seam fastball, providing stability and consistency in the middle of the bullpen.
Back to Sugar Land: Astros prospect Joey Loperfido, who had not played since May 20, was sent down to AAA Sugar Land as José Abreu returns to the majors.
Another arm injury: Injuries continue to plague the Astros' starting rotation as Cristian Javier heads to the 15-day injured list with forearm discomfort.