The Washington Nationals are headed home with a 2-0 lead over the Houston Astros in the World Series.

The scoring stopped after both clubs scored two runs in the first inning until the seventh when the Nationals scored six runs and took control of the game. The scoring included a home run by Kurt Suzuki and RBI singles by Howie Kendrick, Asdrubal Cabrera and Ryan Zimmerman.

Already with a commanding lead, the Nationals tacked on three more runs via an Adam Eaton home run and another Cabrera single in the eighth. Michael Taylor homered in the ninth to give the Nationals a 12-2 advantage.

The Astros didn't go down quietly, but the deficit was simply too large. Martin Maldonado homered with one out and Jose Altuve and George Springer reached base with two outs. Jake Marisnick grounded out to end the game.

Stephen Strasburg and Justin Verlander both lasted six innings. Strasburg struck out seven and allowed two runs on seven hits. Verlander had six Ks and surrendered four runs on seven hits.

The Nationals have won 18 of their last 20 games dating back to the regular season.

Game 3 will be Friday night with Anibal Sanchez facing off against Zack Greinke. The nation's capital hasn't hosted a World Series game since 1933.