CLEVELAND -- The Astros became the first team in the American League to reach 70 wins by slamming the Indians, 7-1, on Thursday night at Progressive Field to take two of three games and win a second consecutive road series against a playoff contender.\n\nRight-hander
\n\n \n\n“We have got a good demeanor on this club about staying in the moment, staying in the game,” Astros manager AJ Hinch said. “I applaud our guys for continuing to methodically win series and getting back home in front of our fans.”\n\nHere are three key storylines from the Astros’ victory:\n\n**Outfield defense excels**\n\nThe Astros threw out two runners at the plate, including a 94.5-mph laser throw from shortstop
\n\n \n\n“Our defense was excellent,” Hinch said. “We made some really big plays, especially early in the game when it was close -- from the relay throw from Brantley to Carlos to Maldy, to \\[
\n\n \n\n**Bregman’s big day**\n\nBregman, who slashed .233/.402/.452 with 11 homers and 21 RBIs in July, started August with good results by going 3-for-3 with two walks and two RBIs to reach base five times in a game for the first time in his career. Batting cleanup, it was the first time he had driven in multiple runs since July 2 at Colorado.\n\n“I’m trying to go up there and backspin a baseball, swing at a good pitch,” he said. “I think the biggest thing is always to swing at a good pitch and making sure you hit it hard. I’ve been trying to get a good pitch to hit. Guys did a great job in front of me in the lineup today getting on base. I was fortunate to hit it where they weren’t.”
\n\n \n\n**News of note**\n\n• Reddick was ejected in the sixth inning by home-plate umpire Vic Carapazza for throwing his batting gloves after slamming his helmet. Reddick thought he had foul-tipped a third strike, but he said postgame the replay showed he was nowhere close.
\n\n• The Astros optioned right-handed pitcher [Jose Urquidy](https://www.mlb.com/player/jose-urquidy-664353 \"undefined\") and outfielder