Astros top Angels, clinch postseason berth

Yuli Gurriel hit a grand slam and a two-run homer on his way to a career-high seven RBIs, and the Houston Astros clinched a postseason berth by routing the Los Angeles Angels 11-3 on Friday night.

George Springer added a threerun shot in the eighth for the Astros, who are still looking to secure the AL West title. The defending World Series champions began the day with a 3 1/2-game lead over second-place Oakland.

Houston starter Gerrit Cole (155) allowed three hits and three runs in seven innings in his fifth straight win. He also struck out 12, giving him 1,006 for his career and moving him in front of teammate Justin Verlander (269) for most in the AL this season with 272.

Gurriel hit his third career grand slam in the first inning. It was his first career multihomer game.

Gurriel’s seven RBIs were the most for a Houston player since J.R. Towles set a franchise record with eight 11 years ago on Friday.

RANGERS 8, MARINERS 3

ARLINGTON, Texas—Adrian Beltre hit a three-run homer in the first inning and finished with a season-high five RBIs, and Texas prevailed in a game halted by rain with two outs in the top of the seventh inning.

The Rangers snapped a fourgame losing streak and won their first game under interim manager Don Wakamatsu. Texas fired Jeff Banister on Friday morning. The Rangers are 65-88 and have been in last place since April 9.

The loss moved the Mariners closer to elimination in the American League wild-card race.

Beltre’s RBIs all came with two outs. His 476th career home run moved him into sole possession of 30th place all time, moving past Stan Musial and Willie Stargell.