SEATTLE – Martin Maldonado hit a three-run home run, Framber Valdez struck out eight to set career highs for wins and strikeouts, and the Houston Astros beat the Seattle Mariners 6-1 on Tuesday night to close on their fourth straight playoff berth. Houston (28-27) is second in the AL West, comfortably ahead of the fourth-place Mariners (24-31) and the third-place Los Angeles Angels (25-31). “It's fun when you get some hits,” Astros manager Dusty Baker said. “Sadler has been so sharp here recently,” Seattle manager Scott Servais said. "I would say the ability to control his emotions" is the most improved part of his game, Maldonado said.