Houston takes one on the chin against Yanks

HOUSTON—Gary Sanchez hit a three-run homer in the ninth inning off angry closer Ken Giles to spoil a splendid outing by Justin Verlander, and the New York Yankees beat the Houston Astros 4-0 on Tuesday night after Jordan Montgomery’s start was cut off by tightness in his left elbow.

Verlander allowed tied a career-high by striking out 14 and allowed just three hits—all singles—in eight innings. Giles (0-1) took over and took one on the chin—he punched himself on the face as he walked off the mound.

Aaron Judge singled to start the ninth for New York’s first hit since the third inning. Didi Gregorius doubled to the gap in left field before Sanchez’s home run sailed over the fence in center field for a 3-0 lead.

Aaron Hicks followed with single to chase Giles. An emotional Giles punched himself in the chest with his still-gloved right hand while walking off the field before moving the glove to his left hand and landing a shot to his face. He arrived in the dugout, picked up a bat and slammed it down, then kicked it before retreating to the clubhouse.

Tyler Austin scored on a wild pitch by Will Harris with two outs.

Houston had won seven straight at home against Yankees, including last year’s AL Championship Series. This was the first time in seven games New York scored more than one run at Minute Maid Park.