The Oakland Athletics have already earned their spot in the postseason. Now, they're aiming to snatch the AL West title out of the hands of the Texas Rangers. Just one game behind the Rangers after a 4-3 victory Monday, they'll resume the series Tuesday in Oakland.
A Rangers (93-67) win clinches a third straight AL West title, ensuring the unlikely A's (92-68) will have to play the Wild Card game against either the Baltimore Orioles or New York Yankees on Friday. The division winner will avoid such a scenario, adding a lot of weight to the two playoff-bound team's final games.
The Rangers, losers of seven of 11, are also tied with the Yankees in the race for home-field advantage. They'll hand the ball to Matt Harrison (18-10, 3.26 ERA) Tuesday night to face Oakland starter Travis Blackley (5-4, 4.25).
The first pitch in Oakland Tuesday night is set for 9:05 p.m. CT. The game can be seen locally on Fox Sports Southwest.