Pitching staffs the focus for Astros, Marlins

(Photo credit: Thomas Shea-USA TODAY Sports)

With the All-Star break in sight and the Astros on the brink of having survived the first half of the season despite having six starting pitchers on the injured list, Houston manager Joe Espada is particularly grateful when he gets consecutive quality starts from his rotation.

After right-handerRonel Blanco tossed seven strong innings in the series-opening win over the Miami M