Alexander could have had a very short outing Tuesday, as he gave up eight runs on five hits, two walks and a hit-by-pitch in the first inning. To his credit, he remained in the game and at least spared Houston's bullpen, managing to finish six frames on 100 pitches while allowing just one baserunner -- on a solo homer by Evan Carter -- after the disastrous first inning. Still, Alexander's ERA took a big hit and jumped to an ugly 9.33 through 18.1 innings this season. Houston's staff is dealing with multiple injuries, so Alexander could continue to work as a starter, though that may depend on when Lance McCullers (shoulder) is ready to return.

Called upon to make a short-notice start last Tuesday against the Twins after Lance McCullers (shoulder) was scratched and later moved to the injured list, Alexander took the opportunity and ran with it. He struck out four and yielded just five baserunners over six scoreless innings en route to claiming his first big-league win of the season. The right-hander will be rewarded with a second start, and Alexander could hold down a spot in Houston's six-man rotation until the pitching staff reclaims some health.