Taiwanese pitcher Teng Kai-wei had a strong outing in his return to the majors, good news for him and Houston's bullpen even though the team lost.

• Teng came in with the game tied and threw 1 2/3 scoreless innings, striking out four.
• His sweeper was the key pitch, missing bats on most swings against it.
• Houston still lost 7-6 after a later reliever gave up a home run to Max Muncy.
• The Astros are now tied with the Texas Rangers for first place in the AL West.
• Fellow Taiwanese player Lee Hao-yu had two hits for Detroit and is hitting well all month.

Outlook: Teng is expected to stay in Houston's bullpen as the Astros fight the Rangers for the division lead.