PHILADELPHIA, Sept. 18 (UPI) -- Ryan Howard homered to set a club record and the Philadelphia Phillies won their sixth straight game Saturday, 5-2 over Washington.
Howard blasted his 30th round-tripper of the year, a two-run shot in the second inning, to become the first Phillies player to record at least 30 homers and 100 RBI in five consecutive seasons.
Raul Ibanez hit a home run and went 3-for-4, Wilson Valez added three hits and an RBI and Jason Werth contributed a solo shot in the Phillies' win.
Philadelphia reduced its magic number for clinching the National League East to 11 with its latest victory.
Kyle Kendrick (10-9) got the win, allowing two runs on six hits through six innings.
Brad Lidge collected his 23rd save in the ninth.
Nats starter Jordan Zimmermann (0-2) was lit up for five runs on nine hits over three innings in the setback.
