


Johan Santana struggled in his first game since August, allowing four runs on six hits in 1 2-3 innings, and the Houston Astros beat the New York Mets 8-4 on Tuesday. Kaz Matsui hit a solo homer for the first of four straight hits in the first inning off Santana, who struck out one and walked one. The left-hander made it through the short outing with no setbacks as he continues to build strength...
Toronto manager Cito Gaston thinks Ricky Romero is a much improved pitcher now that he has some experience. The 25-year-old left-hander pitched three shutout innings, allowing four hits and striking out two in the Blue Jays' 4-1 win over the Houston Astros on Monday. Rivera went 13-9 in 29 starts as a rookie last season.
This time last year, Tommy Hanson was a confident prospect who knew it wouldn't be long until he made the major leagues. After a half-season rising through the Atlanta Braves system, Hanson made his major league debut and surprised no one, going 11-4 in 21 starts for the Braves. Now, his confidence is just as high.