(Pittsburgh-AP) -- Lance Berkman carried Houston's 12-hit attack in a 9-to-4 romp over Pittsburgh. Berkman went 3-for-4 with a solo homer, three R-B-I's and three runs scored. Berkman provided a two-run single in the Astros'

four-run ninth.

Jeff Kent and Morgan Ensberg also hit solo homers as the Astros beat the Pirates for the ninth straight time dating back to last season. Jeff Bagwell and Craig Biggio had three hits apiece for the winners. Ricky Stone retired all five hitters he faced to move to 4-and-0.

Salomon Torres was reached for three runs and six hits in five innings. He's 2-and-1. Craig Wilson hit a two-run homer for the Pirates, who've dropped

eight of their last nine at home.