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WASHINGTON — A few days later, it all seems too perfect: The Houston Astros clinched the American League pennant last Saturday with a home run in the bottom of the ninth inning by Jose Altuve, their leader and heartbeat. Minute Maid Park erupted in joy. The Astros would be hosting the opening games of the World Series for the first time, and they would have their best pitchers rested and ready.
Now, as the World Series moves to Washington for the first time in 86 years, it is the Nationals who have seized the moment, and the Astros are reeling.