MLB: Washington 4, Houston 2

WASHINGTON, July 23 (UPI) -- Tony Armas Jr. pitched five-plus innings of no-hit ball and Carlos Baerga cracked a three-run double as the Washington Nationals beat Houston, 4-2.

Lance Berkman broke up the no-hitter in the sixth with a two-run homer. Armas didn't give up another hit, going seven innings with five strikeouts and three walks to raise his record to 5-4.

Chad Cordero gave up two hits in the ninth, but still came away with his 34th save.

The Nationals broke a three-game losing streak and won for just the fourth time in their last 15 games.

Brandon Backe (8-7) took the loss, giving up four runs on six hits over six innings, with four walks and one strikeout.