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Hamels looks to continue scoreless streak vs. red-hot Astros

May 25, 2008 - 3:32 PM Philadelphia (27-24) at Houston (29-22) ,2:05 pm EDT

HOUSTON (Ticker) -- Cole Hamels looks for another dominant performance Sunday when the Philadelphia Phillies complete a four-game series against the Houston Astros.

Hamels (5-3, 2.61 ERA) has not allowed a run in his last 19 innings. The lefthander tossed seven scoreless frames with 11 strikeouts Tuesday, but did not receive a decision in a 1-0 triumph over the Washington Nationals.

Before that, the 24-year-old Hamels, who has won his last three decisions, tossed a shutout in a 5-0 victory over the Atlanta Braves on May 15.

Hamels' task will not be easy as he faces the red-hot Astros, who have won 12 of their last 15 home contests and have all the momentum entering this game.

After entering the game as a defensive replacement, leftfielder Darrin Erstad gunned down Pedro Feliz at home plate to complete a game-ending double play and secure Houston's second straight 4-3 victory over Philadelphia on Saturday.

Seeking their third consecutive win, the Astros will send righthander Chris Sampson (3-3, 5.91) to the mound. He is also eyeing his third straight win after yielding two runs over 6 2/3 innings during Tuesday's 4-2 win over the Chicago Cubs.