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The Astros were one of the season's early surprises when they were charging up the NL Central standings in May, but with 16 losses in its last 21 games, Houston finds itself at 27-39 as it welcomes the Kansas City Royals to town.
The Royals, on the other hand, are playing some of their best baseball all season, winning five of their last six games. Kansas City is just five games behind the Chicago White Sox for first place in the NL Central.
The Astros will look to cool them off when they send J.A. Happ (4-7, 5.33 ERA) to the hill tonight. He will be opposed by Jonathan Sanchez (1-2, 5.93 ERA). In four games against Houston, Sanchez has a 1.65 ERA.
First pitch tonight is at 7:05 CT and the game will be broadcasted on Fox Sports Houston.
For more on the Astros be sure to check out From The Crawfish Boxes. Head over to Royals Review to read more about the Royals, and all your baseball news is available at Baseball Nation.