Astros 0 - 1 Padres
Final
  for this game

Volquez blanks Astros

Jul 20, 2012 - 6:18 AM

Video

San Diego, CA (Sports Network) - Edinson Volquez continued his dominance of the Astros on Thursday, tossing a one-hit shutout in a 1-0 Padres victory.

It was the first career shutout for Volquez (6-7), who improved to 6-0 in his career against Houston. The 29-year-old righty threw 117 pitches, walked three and struck out five.

"It's exciting," said Volquez. "It's the best feeling you could ever feel."

Logan Forsythe had a first-inning RBI single for the Padres, who have won five of their last six, including three straight to close this four-game series.

Lucas Harrell (7-7) took the loss, allowing one run on four hits over seven innings. He struck out six and issued just one walk, but couldn't prevent the Astros' 16th setback in their last 18 games.

"I was just trying to keep it close after they got the run in the first," said Harrell.

Houston's only hit came on an infield single in the fourth inning. Matt Downs, who homered twice in Wednesday's 8-4 loss, tapped a grounder towards the left side of the mound. Volquez attempted to barehand the slow roller but failed to pick it up.

"That's part of the game. I got ahead in the count, I think I threw a fastball inside, he checked his swing and hit it in the right spot," said Volquez.

J.D. Martinez reached second base on the hit, but Justin Maxwell grounded out to end the inning. It marked the last time in the game that the Astros placed a runner in scoring position.

Volquez issued just one walk the rest of the way and retired the final 10 batters he faced -- three on strikeouts -- to seal his first career complete game. The Padres have won each of his last five starts.

Forsythe's first-inning single through the right side of the infield scored Alexi Amarista, who led off with a double.

Game Notes

Volquez has eight career starts against the Astros. His six career wins against Houston are his most against any major league team...The Padres activated outfielder Jeremy Hermida from the 60-day disabled list on Thursday and optioned him to Tucson. They also designated pitcher Mark Hamburger for assignment.






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