LEADING OFF: Astros try to clinch trip to World Series

A look at what's happening around the majors today:

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BACK ON THE HILL

Astros rookie Luis García will start against the Red Sox in Game 6 of the AL Championship Series with a trip to the World Series on the line.

García started Game 2 and gave up a grand slam in the first inning before leaving with no outs in the second because of discomfort in his right knee. Manager Dusty Baker announced Thursday that García would get the ball for Game 6, saying the Astros are confident the problem is behind García and he’ll be 100% healthy for Friday’s start.

Houston leads the series 3-2.

Nathan Eovaldi will start for Boston. He came through on Saturday in Game 2, pitching 5 1/3 innings for the win, but he faltered out of the bullpen in Game 4 on Tuesday and allowed four runs while retiring just two batters.

“I don’t think there’s any limitations,” he said. “My arm feels good, and mentally I’m going to be ready and prepared for this game.”

PRODUCING PUJOLS

Albert Pujols is doing his part to extend the season for the Dodgers.

The 41-year-old slugger had two hits and scored two runs as Los Angeles, boosted by Chris Taylor's three home runs, routed Atlanta 11-2 Thursday night, cutting the Braves' lead in the NL Championship Series to 3-2.

Signed by the Dodgers in mid-May after being released by the Angels, Pujols is 5 for 15 in eight games this postseason. In 9 1/2 seasons with the Angels, Pujols had a total of two hits in three playoff games.

Pujols is a two-time World Series champion with St. Louis and a career .323 hitter in 85 postseason games.

“I don’t take anything for granted. I take my at-bats. I take my game like it’s my last game of my career,” Pujols said.

Game 6 will be...

source https://www.chron.com/sports/article/LEADING-OFF-Astros-try-to-clinch-trip-to-World-16553650.php