As the regular MLB season comes to a close, the Houston Astros are poised to wrap up their series
against the Cleveland Guardians on Sunday. With the Astros looking to sweep the three-game set, both
teams are preparing for their postseason plans.
The Guardians, champions of the American League Central with a record of 92-69, have secured a bye
into the divisional round, which begins next Saturday. Manager Stephen Vogt expressed gratitude for
the team’s opportunity to rest and prepare for the playoffs, emphasizing their need to maintain
momentum despite the challenges of the series. After losing the first two games and managing only five
runs, Cleveland is eager to avoid a home sweep, especially as star player José Ramirez approaches a
significant milestone.
Ramirez matched his career high with 39 home runs during Saturday’s 4-3 loss. Should he hit another
home run on Sunday, he would join the elite ranks of Shohei Ohtani as one of the few players this season
to achieve both 40 homers and 40 stolen bases. “It’s been an unbelievable year to watch,” Vogt
remarked, highlighting Ramirez’s impressive stats, including 41 steals and 118 RBIs.
Meanwhile, the Astros, having clinched the AL West title for the fourth consecutive year, are set to begin
their postseason at home on Tuesday against either the Detroit Tigers or Kansas City Royals. After a
challenging start to the season, the Astros have turned things around, boasting a strong 62-39 record
since June 2. First-year manager Joe Espada expressed confidence in the team’s resilience.
On Sunday, the Astros will debut promising right-hander Ryan Gusto, while the Guardians plan to
utilize right-hander Nick Sandlin as an opener, followed by Gavin Williams for the bulk of the game.
With both teams eyeing the postseason, the final game of the regular season promises to be a thrilling
matchup.
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