Moehler, Astros blank last-place Nationals

Kaz Matsui's three-run homer led the Houston Astros to a 5-0 win over the Washington Nationals on Sunday.

Matsui's shot to the first row of the stands in right field near the bullpen came in the seventh inning and gave Houston a 4-0 lead. The win gives the Astros a 3-1 series victory over the last-place Nationals and leaves Houston at .500 heading into the All-Star break.

The Astros got another solid start from Brian Moehler (6-5), who allowed seven hits in 6 1-3 innings to win for the fourth time in five decisions. Closer Jose Valverde got the last four outs for his eighth save of the season and the 150th of his career.

Houston added a run in the eighth inning when Lance Berkman scored on a balk by Tyler Clippard, who looked to have lost his balance and almost fell off the mound.