KISSIMMEE, Fla. — Chris Carter hit his second homer of the spring and started an eight-run fifth inning with a double Sunday as the Houston Astros roughed up Charlie Morton in a 14-2 victory over the Pittsburgh Pirates.

Carter went 3 for 3 and drove in two runs for Houston. The first baseman is trying to become a more complete hitter than the one who finished second in the major leagues in home runs (37) and fifth in strikeouts (182) last season.

Morton was chased with one out in the fifth, having allowed seven runs and nine hits.

“Charlie’s pouring everything he’s got into repeating his delivery,” said Pittsburgh manager Clint Hurdle. “At times it was in synch, at times it wasn’t. The ball ended up up more than it was down. The sinker played without the consistency he needs. He’s working, he’s healthy, he’ll get it right.”

Jordy Mercer homered for the Pirates, his second of the spring.