MLB: Washington 5, Houston 1

WASHINGTON, May 24 (UPI) -- Alfonso Soriano had one run, two hits and one RBI Wednesday night as Washington beat the Houston Astros, 5-1.

The Nationals scored four runs in the eighth inning to get the fourth win in their last five games.

Daryle Ward and Royce Clayton each had one RBI for the Nationals, who improved to 18-29 overall.

In relief, winning pitcher Gary Majewski rose to 2-2.

Washington had only six hits in the contest.

Morgan Ensberg hit his 16th home run in the second inning to account for the lone run for the Astros (25-22), who have split their last four games.

In relief, the loser was Dan Wheeler (0-3).

Closer Brad Lidge gave up three of Washington's four eighth-inning runs.