Kissimmee, FL (WKZO) – Duane Below’s five earned runs allowed was the difference as the Houston Astros thumped the Tigers 9-4 on Tuesday afternoon in Grapefruit League action. Shawn Hill took the loss for Detroit, giving up two runs and a 3-2 lead in the fourth inning.

Making his first start of the spring for the Tigers was Doug Fister, who pitched two innings, but allowed a two-run homer to Astros’ catcher Jason Castro, while striking out one and walking one.

Eric Bedard made the start for the American League’s newest member and allowed 1 unearned run in two innings for the Astros. Houston who will begin their first season as a member of the American League after being moved from the National League Central to the AL West to give both leagues 15 teams.

Brayan Pena put Detroit up 3-2 in the top of the fourth, after smashing his first homerun of the spring over the right field fence. The switch hitting catcher was signed to a one-year deal during the off-season to backup Alex Avila after spending four seasons with the Kansas City Royals. Nick Castellanos was on base after reaching on a line drive single to center. The Tigers’ top prospect also drew a walk in the second inning.   

Tyler Collins’ great start to the spring continued as he went 1-2 with an RBI double, knocking in the Tigers’ fourth and final run in the eighth inning.

Jhonny Peralta and Avisail Garcia each recorded doubles for the Tigers.

In a wild but effective outing Bruce Rondon, stuck out two, but walked two in 2/3 of an inning.