Pitching prospect McCullers fans 10 in win

Right-hander Lance McCullers, the Astros' No. 5 prospect and No. 49 overall, struck out a career-high 10 batters in five scoreless innings Tuesday as Class A Advanced Lancaster defeated High Desert, 5-3.

McCullers struck out half the batters he faced. He allowed three hits and one walk en route to his first victory of the season.

Pitching in the piggyback system the Astros employ in most levels in the Minor Leagues, McCullers has thrown 28 2/3 innings in four starts and three relief appearances this season. He has a 2.51 ERA and has struck out 33 batters and walked 12.

Right-hander Kyle Smith, the Astros' No. 19 prospect, relieved McCullers. He allowed three runs (one earned) on six hits and struck out seven batters in 3 2/3 innings.

-- Teddy Cahill