Pirates' Gerrit Cole: Continues to struggle Wednesday versus Astros

Cole (7-9) allowed five runs on seven hits, struck out four and walked one in a loss to the Astros on Wednesday.

Analysis:

The right-hander just hasn't been himself lately, as he's lost three straight decisions. Over his last 16 innings, Cole has allowed 14 runs (13 earned) on 31 hits. Prior to Wednesday, he actually yielded 12 hits in two straight appearances. His triceps injury obviously hurt, but Cole hasn't really been right all year. Lefties are hitting .320 against him, and his swinging-strike rate is down nearly two percent from last year, resulting in fewer strikeouts. Cole will try to get right in his next appearance Monday against the Cubs.