HOUSTON -- From baserunning to pitching to hitting, the Astros clearly haven't hit on all cylinders in the first month of the season, which is why they find themselves heading into Friday's series against the A's in Oakland tied with the Twins for the worst record in the American League at 7-15.
The starting rotation, which has been without righty Lance McCullers (shoulder soreness), has underperformed, with anchors Dallas Keuchel and Collin McHugh having yet to duplicate the success they had last year. Reliever Ken Giles -- the team's biggest offseason acquisition -- has been roughed up in the bullpen, and the offense has been inconsistent at best.