MLB playoffs: Altuve lifts Astros to brink of World Series as D-Backs level NLCS

• Astros take 3-2 lead over Rangers in ALCS after benches clear
• Moreno's decisive hit send D-backs over Phillies 6-5 in NLCS

Jose Altuve thrives under pressure for the Houston Astros, able to stay calm in the biggest October moments even after another bench-clearing fracas against the Texas Rangers.

The defending World Series champions are one win from a third consecutive pennant after Altuve's three-run homer in the ninth inning of a wild and testy 5-4 victory over their instate division rival Friday gave the Astros a 3-2 lead in the AL Championship Series.