For the second time in three days, an ineffective performance from a Houston Astros starter taxed their bullpen and produced an early deficit they could not overcome. The Kansas City Royals scored seven runs in the first three innings Monday against rookie Ryan Gusto and averted a late meltdown to hand the Astros a 7-5 loss in the opener of a three-game series at Daikin Park.

Michael Massey had a big game, Michael Wacha was once again solid, and the top third of the lineup accrued a combined seven hits to send the Astros back to earth in a 7-5 Royals victory down in Houston.

Just about concluding their 6 game homestand and teeing off their series against the Kansas City Royals, the Astros fall short in yesterday's series opener rallying back late in the 7th & 8th inning following a final of 7-5.