Prior memory held 90-59 with plus 69 after the 14-4 Houston sweep finale. New in this cycle is the official 2-1 walkoff over the Athletics on Sep 15 that moved the line to 91-59 with plus 70, pushed third baseman Junior Caminero to 41 homers, and added the reported 15-day injured list move for right-hander Tyler Wells with hope for a minimal stint and playoff return as single-source reporting. Confidence holds steady because the cushion grew by one while the forearm scare added fresh October risk.
The Tampa Bay Rays own the American League top seed at 91-59 because starting pitcher Drew Rasmussen, starting pitcher Nick Martinez, closer Bryan Baker and third baseman Junior Caminero keep stealing tight games, but plus 70 and right-hander Tyler Wells hitting the injured list keep October tight.
Watch closer Bryan Baker usage through the Athletics bank window, whether starting pitcher Drew Rasmussen and starting pitcher Nick Martinez stay on turn for Boston, and any official clarity on right-hander Tyler Wells throwing progression before the Bronx doubleheader.
A lead of two games or fewer with ten to play, a setback for right-hander Tyler Wells that rules out October, or a homestand bullpen ERA above 4.00 would drop this from front runner to vulnerable contender.