Prior memory held 88-59 with plus 58 after the Sep 11 walkoff clinch. New in this cycle is the official 3-2 win over Houston on Sep 12 that moved the line to 89-59 with plus 59, pushed closer Bryan Baker to 40 saves, and added right-handed pitcher Brody Hopkins to the roster while right-handed pitcher Michael Grove was designated for assignment. Confidence ticks up because October is now fact and the lead grew from three to four, though the margin asterisk survives.
The Tampa Bay Rays clinched October and own the American League top seed at 89-59 because starting pitcher Drew Rasmussen, starting pitcher Nick Martinez and closer Bryan Baker steal tight games for third baseman Junior Caminero.
Watch closer Bryan Baker usage through the Houston finale, whether starting pitcher Drew Rasmussen and starting pitcher Nick Martinez stay on turn for Boston, and whether the East lead stays above three entering the Athletics series.
A lead of two games or fewer with ten to play, an injury to starting pitcher Drew Rasmussen or starting pitcher Nick Martinez or third baseman Junior Caminero, or a homestand bullpen ERA above 4.00 would drop this from front runner to vulnerable contender.