Astros pitcher Lance McCullers allowed two runs on two hits and two walks with seven strikeouts over 6 1/3 innings Monday during Game 4 of the American League Division Seriest Kansas City. He was in line for the win, but did not factor into the decision as the Royals tagged the bullpen for seven runs.
The 22-year-old rookie displayed great poise in his first career playoff start. He surrendered a two-run homer to Salvador Perez in the second inning, but settled down thereafter, permitting only a single, walk and a hit batter before A.J. Hinch put the game in the hands of his relievers.
Fresh off a remarkable rookie season and promising playoff debut, McCullers will certainly open 2016 with a spot in the starting rotation.