Article: Astros blast Cubs out of NL Central lead; Half-game: Three-team race seen as Cardinals creep into contention

HOUSTON (AP) - The leap from second place to first place in the NL Central isn't getting the Houston Astros too excited.

Craig Biggio hit the 28th leadoff homer of his career, two short of the NL record, and Vinny Castilla and Daryle Ward also homered as the Houston Astros beat the Chicago Cubs, 9-5, Monday night and moved into first place in the NL Central.

The Astros took a half-game lead over the Cubs, who had been in first place since May 29. Still, there are nine games remaining between the two front-runners.

"One-half game doesn't feel real safe against the Cubs," Astros manager Larry Dierker said. "It was nice to win this one. I feel pretty good. We've had pretty good teamwork the ...

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