Javier strikes out 14 batters in 8-1 win over Angels

Kristie Rieken, The Associated Press

HOUSTON — Cristian Javier had another strong showing — setting a new personal best by striking out 14 and allowing just one hit in seven innings — to lead the Houston Astros to an 8-1 win over the Angels from Los Angeles on Friday.

The 25-year-old pitcher was sparkling in his first start since striking out 13 in seven innings Saturday against the New York Yankees, where he and his teammates went without a run or hit.

Shohei Ohtani was the only Angels player to beat Javier, hitting a first-inning homer.

Javier (6-3) struggled for the remainder of his performance, striking out the next 19 batters before walking off the field to a round of applause.

Both relief pitchers allowed two hits. The Astros pitchers totaled 16 strikeouts to give the Texas club a fourth straight victory.

Yuli Gurriel, Jake Meyers and McCormick all barreled the ball over the fence and beat Angels starter Michael Lorenzen (6-6). The latter allowed eight points in just three innings of work.

Jeremy Peña returned to action after missing Thursday’s clash. He left the pitch due to a brutal collision with Yordan Alvarez on Wednesday.

Alvarez, however, remained on the sidelines.

Lorenzen allowed eight hits and suffered a third straight loss.