Angels break through in fourth for four hits in 2-0 win over Astros

AT THE PLATE: Houston starter Roberto Hernandez gave up only six hits, but four came in the fifth inning to give the Angels a 2-0 lead. David Freese led off with a single to left. He went to third on a hit-and-run single by Erick Aybar. Freese scored on C.J. Cron’s sacrifice fly. Aybar scored on a single by rookie Carlos Perez. Albert Pujols extended his hitting streak to 11 games with a sixth-inning single. Jose Altuve, Houston’s 5-foot-6 second baseman, continues to wear out pitchers. He had three hits Friday to raise his average to .349.

ON THE MOUND: Jered Weaver’s complete game shutout allowed the Angels to rest a weary bullpen. Closer Huston Street, who had blown saves in back-to-back games, got a night off.

ON THE BASEPATHS: The Astros stole three bases in their 3-2 victory over the Angels on Thursday. “There is no doubt they can push it on the basepaths, particularly with the stolen base,” Angels’ Manager Mike Scioscia said. “They run the bases aggressively. But you have to balance paying attention to it without the distraction of giving too much leverage to the hitter in the batter’s box, where you are missing spots.” The Angels found some balance Friday. Catcher Carlos Perez threw out Altuve attempting to steal in the first inning. Pitcher Weaver picked off Altuve in the third inning.

ROSTER MOVE: The Angels, trying to bolster an overworked bullpen, called up relief pitcher Ryan Mattheus from triple-A Salt Lake City on Friday. Mattheus had a 2.84 earned-run average with one save in 11 appearances for Salt Lake City. Angels closer Huston Street and setup man Joe Smith have pitched in the last three games. “We have a bullpen we’re trying to keep together,” Scioscia said. “A lot of these guys have pitched a lot. Mattheus gives us a little more depth there.”

REHAB: Reliever Cory Rasmus, who underwent surgery for an abdominal injury in March, was cleared to begin throwing. “Cory is just starting his throwing progression,” Scioscia said. “You’re talking a whole lot of time before he is out there throwing 180, 200 feet. Then it’s going to take a while with bullpens and with rehab games. He still has some work ahead of him.” Rasmus is on the 60-day disabled list.

UP NEXT: Matt Shoemaker (2-2, 5.40 ERA) will oppose Houston’s Dallas Keuchel (3-0, 0.80) at Angel Stadium on Saturday at 6 p.m. On the air: TV: FS West; Radio: 830.