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Altuve's HR in 9th sends Astros to World Series over Yankees

Jose Altuve hit a game-ending homer off Aroldis Chapman with two outs in the ninth inning and the Houston Astros outlasted the New York Yankees 6-4 Saturday night to advance to the World Series for the second time in three years.

In a bullpen game with a back-and-forth finish, DJ LeMahieu hit a tying, two-run shot off Astros closer Roberto Osuna in the top of the ninth. Altuve answered with a two-run drive to left-center, setting off a wild celebration at Minute Maid Park.

Astros ace Gerrit Cole was waiting to pitch a potential Game 7 in this AL Championship Series on Sunday. Instead, the postseason star — undefeated since May 22 — could be lined up for Game 1 at home against the NL champion Washington Nationals on Tuesday night.

Houston Astros' Yuli Gurriel hits a three-run home run off New York Yankees pitcher Chad Green during the first inning in Game 6 of baseball's American League Championship Series Saturday, Oct. 19, 2019, in Houston. (AP PhotoSue Ogrocki)

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Houston Astros' Yuli Gurriel (10) celebrates after his three-run home run against the New York Yankees during the first inning in Game 6 of baseball's American League Championship Series Saturday, Oct. 19, 2019, in Houston. (AP PhotoEric Gay)

New York Yankees' Aaron Judge, left, talks with Houston Astros second baseman Jose Altuve during the third inning in Game 6 of baseball's American League Championship Series Saturday, Oct. 19, 2019, in Houston. (AP PhotoEric Gay)

Houston Astros starting pitcher Brad Peacock throws against the New York Yankees during the first inning in Game 6 of baseball's American League Championship Series Saturday, Oct. 19, 2019, in Houston. (AP PhotoEric Gay)

New York Yankees starting pitcher Chad Green throws against the Houston Astros during the first inning in Game 6 of baseball's American League Championship Series Saturday, Oct. 19, 2019, in Houston. (AP PhotoEric Gay)