The Astros were in control for most of Tuesday's game, but things got tense when the Cardinals scored four runs in the ninth to cut the lead to one.
But Houston got the final out to hold on for a 9-8 win in the series-opener.
A two-run homer from Justin Maxwell capped a four-run first inning as the Astros took a 4-1 lead. After extending the lead to 6-1, the Cardinals scored three in the third to cut the lead to two runs again. Houston scored one in the fourth, sixth and seventh to extend the lead to 9-4 heading into the ninth. That's when things got interesting.
David Carpenter came in to pitch and gave up two singles sandwiched around a strikeout and then a triple. He was pulled for closer Brett Meyers, who immediately gave up a two-run homer to Rafael Furcal. Carlos Beltran popped out, but Matt Holliday walked to put the tying run on. Allen Craig grounded out to shortstop to end the affair.
Lucas Harrell gave up four runs (three earned) over six innings in the start. Maxwell and Chris Snyder each went 2-for-4 with two RBIs.
The Astros have won two in a row since losing eight straight.
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