Astros RHP Lyon careful not to overdo it

KISSIMMEE, Fla. (AP) - Houston Astros reliever Brandon Lyon says he's ready for the start of an eight-month grind.

Lyons says it's important that players don't overdo things before the season starts. He says pitchers want to avoid breaking down in August and September because they were throwing too much during workouts in December.

Astros manager Brad Mills watched as Houston pitchers and catchers held their first practice of spring training on Wednesday.

Lyon went 6-6 with 20 saves and a 3.12 ERA in 79 relief appearances for the Astros last year.