Spring break helping White

Houston starting pitcher Alex White gave up four runs and five hits over 2 2/3 innings during the Astros' 9-6 loss to the Mets in Grapefruit League action Saturday. White, who is competing for a spot in the starting rotation, has been roughed up for six earned runs over his past two starts and now owns an 8.53 ERA. "I threw a lot of strikes and made some really good pitches and gave up some hits that were not hit real well," said White, who had two strikeouts and a walk. "I feel good about the outing. Obviously, the numbers aren’t what I wanted them to be but it’s a little early and we keep working."