Alex Bregman launched a solo homer during a two-run third and the Astros went on to nip the Cubs, 2-1. Collin McHugh fired five innings of one-run, two-hit ball to move to 10-and-10. Ken Giles nailed down his 10th save. Houston stopped a three-game skid.
Willson Contreras plated the only run for Chicago, which has dropped three of four. John Lackey allowed both runs during his six-inning start to dip to 9-and-8.
Final game of the series is tonight in Houston.
Eric Hosmer and Whit Merrifield each drove in a pair of runs as the Royals held off the White Sox, 6-5 at U.S. Cellular Field. Kevin McCarthy earned the relief win on five pitches. Wade Davis picked up his 23rd save, despite giving up a run and three hits.
Chicago's Chris Beck took the loss, allowing three runs on two hits in a third of an inning. The White Sox had the tying run on third with one out in the bottom of the ninth. Adam Eaton and Tyler Saladino each collected three hits in the losing effort.
The 3-game series wraps up today in Chicago.