Andrew Alvarez surrendered five runs and walked five in 5 2/3 innings Tuesday in a loss to the Astros.

Alvarez also hit a batter and the Astros went 3-for-3 stealing bases against him, which helps explain how he gave up five runs despite allowing just four singles and no extra-base hits. Alvarez has walked 21 in 47 innings in the majors this year. He’s managed a 3.64 ERA anyway, but he can’t keep putting guys on base like this. Since he won’t be needed to make another start before the break, the Nationals might send him down to the minors to keep him sharp.