HOUSTON – Albert Pujols hit a two-run homer in the first inning and Ricky Nolasco pitched seven solid innings, helping the Angels hinder the Houston Astros’ wild-card hopes with a 2-0 victory Thursday night.
The Angels ended an 11-game skid against the Astros and kept Houston one game behind the Orioles and Tigers for the second AL wild card, with Detroit still playing later Thursday against the Twins.
Pujols homered into the Crawford Boxes in left field, helping the Angels move to 2-11 against the Astros this season.
Nolasco (7-14) allowed five hits – all singles – and struck out five.