The Houston Astros will go back to right-hander Jose Urquidy in Game 3 of the American League Championship Series, a repeat of the AL Division Series when the second-year pitcher also started the third game.
Urquidy was a late replacement for Zack Greinke in Game 3 of the ALDS when the veteran was not able to pitch because of arm soreness. Greinke returned one day later in Game 4.
The Oakland Athletics tagged Urquidy for four runs, all on home runs, over 4 1/3 innings Wednesday in a neutral-site game at Los Angeles. The Astros’ offense was able to rally, but the A’s won their only game of the series when they scored three runs in the seventh inning and two more in the eighth against Houston’s bullpen.
Urquidy, 25, was 1-1 with a 2.73 ERA in five starts during the regular season. He is 3-2 with a 3.44 ERA in 14 career appearances (12 starts) over his two major league seasons.
The Astros went with left-hander Framber Valdez in Game 1 of the ALCS on Sunday at San Diego, while the Rays countered with left-hander Blake Snell. Tampa Bay earned a 2-1 victory.
The Rays have right-hander Charlie Morton set to start Game 2 on Monday, while the Astros will counter with right-hander Lance McCullers Jr.
Tampa Bay has not named its starter for Game 3, with right-hander Tyler Glasnow expected to pitch in Game 4.
Game 3 is set for Tuesday, with the Astros serving as the home team in San Diego.
