5/21/08 @ Astros; L 3-5; (28-19)

The Cubs fell to the Astros for the second day in a row, losing the series in the process. This is the seventh time this season the Cubs have lost back to back games. It hadn’t happened in over two weeks, as the Cubs had won series with the Diamondbacks, Padres, and Pirates. With the Red Sox winning six straight, the Cubs now hold the third best winning percentage in baseball.

Recently promoted Micah Hoffpauir was the offensive highlight for the team. In his first major league start, he doubled in the first inning for his first major league hit. His second came in the seventh inning, another double. His two hits lead the Cubs, who managed only five hits on the night.

Mark DeRosa didn’t get one of those five hits, ending his streak at eleven games. Derek Lee did have a home run for the Cubs, moving him to eleven on the season. That puts him ahead of Soriano for the team lead. His two base hits last night recaptured the team lead for hits from Theriot who has gone cold. (Note to self, treat Theriot’s hot streaks like a pitcher during a no hitter….don’t talk about it) Lee also leads the team in runs scored.

Most of the damage from the Astros came on a three run shot by Carlos Lee. That was part of a four run third inning that put the Astros ahead to stay. Gallagher just wasn’t good tonight, but the Astros didn’t run away and hide. The Cubs had chances and lost by only two.

Today is a travel day. The team will regroup before starting a three game set with the Pirates tomorrow. Zambrano will be on the hill looking to help the Cubs avoid their first three game skid of the year.