Johnny Cueto retired the final 19 batters he faced, and the Royals beat the Astros, 7-2, in the decisive Game 5 of the American League Division Series in Kansas City on Wednesday night. The Royals advanced to their second consecutive American League Championship Series as a result of the win.

Trailing 2-0 after Luis Valbuena homered off Cueto early, Kansas City broke through against Astros starter Collin McHugh in the fourth and fifth innings. Alex Rios’ two-run double off reliever Mike Fiers in the fifth gave the Royals the lead for good. Ben Zobrist’s sac fly brought in Rios two batters later.

Kendrys Morales added a three-run homer off Dallas Keuchel in the eighth as insurance.

Cueto struck out eight batters and walked none in eight strong innings while picking up the win. McHugh took the loss, allowing three runs in four-plus innings.

The Royals will host the Blue Jays in Game 1 of the ALCS on Friday.

ALDS Recap: Kansas City defeats Houston, 3-2

Game 1: Houston 5, Kansas City 2
Game 2: Kansas City 5, Houston 4
Game 3: Houston 4, Kansas City 2
Game 4: Kansas City 9, Houston 6
Game 5: Kansas City 7, Houston 2
best-of-five series

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