The Cardinals beat the Astros 4-3 in Houston, gaining a half game on the idle Reds for the top spot in the N.L. Central. They trail by just a half game. Darryl Kile got the start, but not the decision, despite allowing just one run. Gene Stechschulte who pitched an inning and a third, allowing two runs got the win, improving ot 6-1. He’s gotten all six wins in relief. Tino Martinez hit his 6th home run of the year, Jason Isringhausen recorded his 14th save.
