Royals starter Luke Hochevar allowed just five hits over 7 2/3 scoreless innings as the Astros fell 2-0 in Houston on Tuesday night.
For his part, Wandy Rodriguez pitched well, giving up two earned runs on six hits over seven innings. But the Houston offense couldn't muster much. Billy Butler hit a solo home run in the top of the first and that would be all KC needed. The Royals added another run in the third inning.
Carlos Lee led Houston at the plate, going 2-for-4 with a walk, while Chris Johnson went 2-for-4. Brandon Lyon allowed two hits in 1 1/3 innings of relief.
The teams will have the rubber match in a day game on Wednesday.
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