`Pen proves clutch, but Astros lose pitchers` duel
(MLB.com Houston Astros)

On a night when a pair of aces traded punches, Justin Verlander stumbled before Cole Hamels, and growing concern about the Astros` struggle to score runs at Minute Maid Park swelled. With hope of rebounding from his first regular-season loss as an Astro in his last start, Verlander rolled early in his ninth start of the season, but Houston`s bullpen played a key role in keeping the game close. With little offense to help -- the Astros managed just one hit off Hamels and three relievers -- the Astros fell, 1-0, to the Rangers.