Rays Beat Astros 5-2, Move Within 1 Victory of World Series

SAN DIEGO (AP) — The Tampa Bay Rays are one victory away from their first World Series appearance in 12 years after grabbing a three-games-to-none lead in the AL Championship Series.

The Rays posted a 5-2 victory over the Astros by erupting for five runs in the sixth inning with help from another error by second baseman Jose Altuve. Joey Wendle put Tampa Bay on top with a two-run single and pinch-hitter Hunter Renfroe came through with a two-run double to close out the rally.

Ryan Yarbrough picked up the victory, leaving the game after Michael Brantley led off the bottom of the sixth with a home run. Altuve also homered in the first for the Astros, but his third miscue in two games helped Tampa Bay take command of the series.

Diego Castillo issued one-out walks to Abraham Toro and George Springer before fanning Altuve. Brantley's fly ball to center allowed Castillo to pick up the save.

Losing pitcher Jose Urquidy left the game during the Rays' rally, charged with one earned run and four hits over five-plus innings.