Randy Wolf pitched 6 2-3 strong innings, Lance Berkman hit a two-run homer and the Houston Astros beat the Cincinnati Reds 5-0 on Wednesday night to keep their slim playoff hopes alive.

Houston pulled within 3 1/2 games of the wild card with four games left on its schedule.

Wolf (12-12) allowed eight hits, struck out seven and walked two, improving to 6-2 in 12 starts since being acquired from the Padres on July 22.

The Wild Card leading Mets lost to the Cubs, while the Brewers beat Pittsburgh. That puts New York and Milwaukee in a tie, with the Astros 3 1/2 back.