DETROIT — The first big league win for Lance McCullers, 3-2 over the Tigers, included a memorable moment for not only the kid, but the franchise. The 10th triple play in Astros history was completed behind him, the team’s first since 2004.
The rookie pitcher was headed for trouble in the fifth inning of his second big league start. He gave up a rocket leadoff double to James McCann and then forgot to cover the first-base bag on Jose Iglesias’ grounder to the right side. There were two on, none out and the top of a dangerous Tigers order was coming to the plate.