--CF Michael Bourn, who has hit eighth this season after leading off most of last year, has a six-game hitting streak. He has at least one hit in each game he's played this season.

"Michael's done a good job," GM Ed Wade said. "He's hitting in a tough spot in the lineup, eighth, and he's done everything we've asked."

--RHP Russ Ortiz, the fifth starter who posted a 6.75 ERA over four innings of relief while awaiting his turn in the rotation, drew praise from GM Ed Wade. Ortiz will make his first start of the season Thursday against the Pirates at PNC Park.

"Russ Ortiz hasn't gotten a start yet, but he's certainly helped us in the bullpen," Wade said.

--LHP Wandy Rodriguez (0-1) is the Astros' only starting pitcher with more than one quality start this season. He owns two of the Astros' three quality starts.

"Wandy's done a good job and threw very, very well the other day," GM Ed Wade said.

MEDICAL WATCH:

RHP Brian Moehler (strained right knee) left the April 13 game.

RHP Doug Brocail (strained right rotator cuff) went on the 15-day disabled list retroactive to April 11.

RHP Brandon Backe (strained left side muscle) went on the 15-day disabled list March 27. He threw off a mound April 8 and April 11.

INF Aaron Boone (open-heart surgery on March 26) went on the 15-day disabled list March 27, and he was transferred to the 60-day DL on April 10. He was uncertain whether he'd resume his career.

ROTATION:

RHP Roy Oswalt

LHP Wandy Rodriguez

RHP Brian Moehler

LHP Mike Hampton

RHP Russ Ortiz

BULLPEN:

RHP Jose Valverde (closer)

RHP LaTroy Hawkins

LHP Wesley Wright

RHP Geoff Geary

LHP Tim Byrdak

RHP Chris Sampson

RHP Jeff Fulchino

CATCHERS:

Ivan Rodriguez

Humberto Quintero

INFIELDERS:

1B Lance Berkman

2B Kaz Matsui

SS Miguel Tejada

3B Geoff Blum

INF Jeff Keppinger

INF Jason Smith

OUTFIELDERS:

LF Carlos Lee

CF Michael Bourn

RF Hunter Pence

OF/1B Darin Erstad

OF Jason Michaels