HOUSTON, May 23 (UPI) -- Jose Valverde cut off a Philadelphia comeback bid in the ninth Friday after being hit in the head by a line drive, giving Houston a 4-3 win over Philadelphia.
Houston took a 4-1 lead in the ninth, two of the Astros' runs coming on homers by Hunter Pence.
Valverde was called on to record his 15th save and Pat Burrell promptly singled and went to second on a fielding error in center by Michael Bourn. Geoff Jenkins then grounded out with Burrell going to third.
Pedro Feliz followed and drove in Burrell with a shot that hit Valverde in the face. After staying on the ground for several minutes, Valverde got to his feet and talked his way into staying in the game.
Valverde gave up a single to Carlos Ruiz and struck out Chris Coste before allowing a double to Jimmy Rollins that scored Feliz and brought the Phillies within one. Shane Victorino flied out to center to end the game.
Valverde saved a win for Brandon Backe (4-5), who gave up a run over 7 1/3 innings. Adam Eaton (0-3) took the loss after allowing three runs on eight hits in seven innings.
