Leading 4-1 heading into the top of the ninth inning, the Marlins had a chance to win their first series of the season on Saturday night at Marlins Park.
But new closer Heath Bell took over and promptly surrendered four hits and four earned runs in two-thirds of an inning. The visiting Houston Astros (4-4), as a result, took a late 5-4 lead and never looked back.
Houston closer Brett Myers took over in the bottom of the inning and retired three straight batters to record his second save of the season and preserve the come-from-behind win.
Bell’s shaky performance wasted a rather strong showing from recent addition and starting pitcher, Carlos Zambrano, who gave up just one run over six innings, while striking out four batters.
Miami had taken its 4-1 lead during a three-run third inning, where first baseman Gaby Sanchez capped the effort with a single to shallow center, scoring third baseman Hanley Ramirez.
The rubber match begins tomorrow at 1:10 p.m. EST.
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