Aaron Harang Shuts Out Astros on Two Hits; Tyler Colvin Leads Rockies over Nats with a Pair of Homers

Players of the Day for Tuesday, June 11, 2013

American League

If not for J.D. Martinez, Aaron Harang would have had a no-hitter in Seattle's 4-0 win over the Houston Astros.

Harang: 2-hitter

And, if shortstop Brendan Ryan hadn't flubbed a grounder in the sixth inning, Harang would have pitched a perfect game.

However, Martinez did have a couple of singles - the only hits off Harang - and Ryan's error was inconsequential, so, in a game that's more about "what is" rather than "if's," Harang had to settle for a two-hit shutout, which isn't such a bad thing.

Despite his 3-6 record, Harang has had his moments this season, especially of late. On May 27, he threw a four-hit shutout against San Diego, fanning eight. In Tuesday's effort, he struck out a season-high 10.

There wasn't a great deal of drama in Harang's outing. Martinez got his first hit with two out in the second, so there was no expectation of a no-hitter.

Seattle could use a few more outings like Harang's (s could the Astros). The Mariners are third in the AL West, 10 games behind co-leaders, Oakland and Texas.

The win was Seattle's second straight over the Astros. The Mariners will be looking for the series sweep when they take the field Wednesday night at 7:10 pm PDT.

National League

In Colorado, everybody's getting into the swing of things.

Colvin: 2HR, 4RBI

Tyler Colvin socked a pair of two-run homers as the Rockies buried the struggling Nationals, 8-3, taking the series opener from their guests at Coors Field.

Colvin, recently recalled from AAA Colorado Springs, was playing in just his third big league game this season, but proved he belongs in the majors with a winning performance.

His fifth-inning homer tied the game at two and started a five run uprising, culminating in Carlos Gonzalez's 18th of the year, a three-run blast. Colvin homered again in the eighth with a man aboard to put the game out of reach.

The Rockies' win, combined with Arizona's loss to the Dodgers and the Giants' defeat at Pittsburgh, tightened the NL West race yet again. Colorado is a game behind the Diamondbacks. San Fran is another game back, followed by San Diego, five out and LA, 7 1/2 behind.

Colorado, winners of two straight and seven of their last ten, will look to take Washington (31-32) further below the .500 mark when they meet in game two of the three-game series, Wednesday at 8:40 pm EDT.

Today's Trivia: The record for saves in a single season is an incredible 62. Who set that mark? (answer tomorrow)

Yesterday's Answer: Detroit's Justin Verlander was AL rookie of the year in 2006 and won the MVP award in 2011.