Whisenhunt hasn't been able to do that lately. He got rocked for 4 earned runs in just 3.1 innings his last time out against Texas, and he's the guy trying to slow down a Houston lineup that's rolling right now.
Yordan Alvarez remains the engine for this Astros offense, and Jeremy Peña gives them a second bat teams have to respect in the middle of the order. Houston's dealing with its own absences — Carlos Correa is still working his way back from an ankle injury, and Brice Matthews isn't expected back until later in August — but this roster has enough pop up top to cover for it against a Giants team that's been outscored badly during its funk.
Buster Posey and company have made clear they're sticking with Tony Vitello through this stretch, treating the summer as a chance to get a look at younger players rather than chase a long-shot playoff push. That's the right process move for the franchise, but it doesn't do much for the Giants tonight against a team that just beat them and has a real ace on the mound.
First pitch at Oracle Park is set for 6:45 PM PT, with the Astros looking to close out the series and keep San Francisco's skid rolling.