Short night for Smyth Cubs' rookie battered by Astros, rips himself after 1/3-inning stint

Astros 9

Cubs 1

HOUSTON--You can argue about rookie starter Steve Smyth's abilityto be effective right now in the major leagues after Houstondestroyed him with six runs on four hits, three walks in one-third ofan inning, but his commitment to excel and demand better of himselfcan't be questioned. That is more than you can say for some otherCubs who might be slip-sliding out of this season.

Although Smyth had a long time to cool down as the Astros went onto win 9-1, removed after facing just eight batters, the left-handerwas livid afterward in the clubhouse. When he banged his head on anoverhead locker door, he slammed it in disgust. When the media askedif …