Former ValleyCat Jordan Lyles Impressive In MLB Debut

It didn't take former Tri-City ValleyCat Jordan Lyles too long to get adjusted to the Major Leagues.

The Houston Astros pitcher made his MLB debut last night in the Astros' 7-3 comeback win at Chicago.

And he showed why he's the organization's top prospect.

The 20-year old right-hander didn't factor in the decision but was outstanding in his first taste of "The Show".  He pitched seven innings, scattered 5 hits while giving up 2 runs.  He struck out 4 and didn't walk a batter.

''That first inning I went out there and got the ball from the third baseman, I just stood on the mound and took it all in,'' Lyles told the Associated Press. ''It's a once in a lifetime type of opportunity and I couldn't ask for anything better.''

Lyles, who started 2 games for the ValleyCats in 2008, was starting in place of the injured Wandy Rodriguez - who is on the 15-day disabled list with swelling in his left elbow.

''He was throwing everything for strikes, keeping guys off-balance, throwing exactly how we saw him throw in spring training,'' Astros manager Brad Mills told the AP. ''He lived up to every expectation of every Astros fan, the management, the organization, everything.''

Lyles is the youngest active player in the Major Leagues at 20 years and 224 days.