OAKLAND -- Astros manager A.J. Hinch may have found another starter in Chris Devenski, who had been working out of the bullpen during his rookie season.
Devenski delivered an effective outing in his first Major League start, though the Astros' offense continued to struggle. Houston found itself on the wrong side of a 2-0 decision against the A's on Saturday at the Coliseum.
"He was teetering in the second and lost his command," Hinch said. "He started pitching a little tentatively but got out of it with the one out and pitched very well."
With that, Hinch was ready to give April the heave-ho.
"I hope we can wash it away quickly," Hinch said. "Hopefully, we can do that by turning the calendar."
Scott Feldman, who lost his place in the rotation to Devenski for the time being, tossed three perfect innings to keep the Astros within striking distance.
"He pitched with an edge," Hinch said. "He attacked the zone and made pitches."
Feldman's effort gave the Astros a lift as they speed into May.
"I think everybody is ready to turn the page," Feldman said. "We all know we're capable of playing a lot better. With May, hopefully something magical happens. We'll get this thing turned around and start playing to our capabilities."
The Astros ended April in last place in the American League West, but back-to-back solid efforts out of Mike Fiers and the combination of Devenski and Feldman give the Astros hope that they can turn it around moving forward. History shows Dallas Keuchel, Collin McHugh and Doug Fister can all pitch better.
"I was being more aggressive, throwing strikes," Feldman said. "It's something I haven't been doing the first few starts. Maybe this will jump-start that aggressiveness and I can carry it over."
Devenski is also ready to keep the momentum going.
"It's something to build on," he said.
The Astros are hoping to build up some success.
"We have one more game here, and then we go home," Astros infielder Jose Altuve said. "We'll continue to support and love each other."