Astros Commemorate Lunar Landing, Shuttle Cardinals 3-2

What a frustrating game for the N.L. Central-leading St. Louis Cardinals. They outhit the Houston Astros 9-5 but still lost 3-2.

No, I'm not one to rush to the closest hospital emergency room and have myself diagnosed with Astros Fever.

Yes, Houston's 47-46 and three games behind the Red Birds.

Yes, it was nice that Brian Moehler not only pitched a good game (he's now 7-5 on the season to go along with his 4.92 ERA), but it came against St. Louis.

He pitched 6.1 innings, gave up six hits, two runs, two walks and struck out five.

And, yes, it was nice to see the 'Stros have a great game for a change against Kyle Lohse, who normally pitches so well against Houston that you'd swear Astros hitters tip their swings.

Besides the three Astros pitchers combining for the hold and Jose Valverde pitching the ninth for his 10th save, Carlos Lee provided all the runs Houston would need with a fourth-inning, three-run home run.

Such a nice way to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the lunar landing!

Houston even commemorated the occasion by wearing special caps with a logo honoring Houston's space accomplishment with the current, UGLY Astros logo.

Again, I'm skeptical. I have a healthy respect for the Cardinals and know that Albert Pujols, who had a quiet, one-hit game last night, can suddenly explode with a fatal home run or two.

Just ask Brad Lidge.