WEST SACRAMENTO, Calif. — The slumping Houston Astros fell out of playoff position, managing just three hits against Jeffrey Springs and three Athletics relievers in a 5-1 loss on Tuesday night.

Houston (84-73) has lost four straight. The Astros dropped four games behind AL West-leading Seattle and a game behind Detroit for the third and final American League wild-card spot.

Springs (11-11) worked five innings, allowing one run on three hits and two walks. Tyler Ferguson, Justin Sterner and Michael Kelly combined to pitch four innings of hitless relief. Jacob Wilson was 2 for 2 with an RBI and scored twice for the A’s.

Astros starter Cristian Javier (2-4) gave up four runs — three earned — in 4 2/3 innings.

Nick Kurtz doubled to lead off the first inning and scored when Brent Rooker re

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