The Astros bombarded Orioles starter Dean Kremer early and then did just enough late to stave off a comeback attempt from Baltimore’s bats.

Astros reliever Bennett Sousa will be re-evaluated in early September, creating some question about his availability for the rest of the regular season.

The Houston Astros entered Thursday night at 69-58, riding a brutal four-game losing streak in which they’ve managed just two runs over their last 37 innings. Looking to build on that strength, Houston made another addition just moments before first pitch against the Baltimore Orioles on Thursday.

The Astros have designated right-hander Shawn Dubin for assignment, according to Matt Kawahara of the Houston Chronicle.  Righty AJ Blubaugh has been called up from Triple-A in the corresponding move (KPRC 2’s Ari Alexander reported earlier on Saturday that Blubaugh was on his way to the Astros’ active roster).

Craig Kimbrel could see leverage opportunities soon with the Astros, who are without Josh Hader and Bennett Soussa due to injuries.

The Little League World Series qualifiers from Richmond, Texas, may not have advanced beyond the early rounds in South Williamsport, Pa., this month. But on Thursday, they got a heck of a consolation

Plus notes on the team's pitching woes and Jesús Sánchez feeling "weird" during his slump since joining the team.

After a month away, Lance McCullers Jr. was back on the mound Friday but his results mirrored his season-long inconsistency.