Moehler: Helps his own cause.
(c) Associated Press
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Brian Moehler tossed seven strong innings to lead the Astros to a 3-1 victory over Cincinnati Saturday. But the win was marred when slugger Carlos Lee was hit in the hand on a pitch by Bronson Arroyo in the third inning and suffered a broken pinkie. While how much time it would take to heal is still in question, El Caballo is no doubt headed to the disabled list for at least a few weeks which will throw a wrench in Houston's hopes to climb back into the playoff hunt.
Miguel Tejada stepped up offensively with two hits, including a solo homer while Moehler doubled for his first hit of the year then later scored on a wild pitch.
Geoff Geary and Tim Byrdak pitched a scoreless eighth then Jose Valverde worked a 1-2-3 ninth for his 28th save of the year.
The Astros are now 4-2 on the road trip and 7-1 against the Redlegs this season. Wandy Rodriguez (6-4) looks to snap out of his mini-slump in the Sunday finale at 12:15 Central. Aaron Harang (3-11) comes off the DL to start for Cincy, letting the Astros miss their young ace, Edinson Volquez in this series.
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