AL West Division Race Heating Up - Astros, Mariners, Rangers Vie for Title

The AL West Division Race is Heating Up

The American League West division has been one of the most competitive divisions in baseball in 2022. With only a few weeks left in the regular season, the race for the division title and playoff spots is really heating up.

A Close Race at the Top

Heading into the final stretch of the season, the Houston Astros hold a slim lead in the AL West. But the Seattle Mariners are right on their heels, trailing by only a few games. This figures to go down to the wire as both teams fight for the division crown.

The Astros have won the AL West four out of the last five seasons. With stars like Jose Altuve, Yordan Alvarez, and Justin Verlander, they have one of the most talented rosters in baseball. However, the Mariners are hungry for their first playoff berth since 2001 and won't go down without a fight.

Which Other Teams are in Contention?

While the Astros and Mariners occupy the top two spots in the AL West right now, a couple other teams still have an outside shot at making noise.

The Texas Rangers exceeded expectations this year and are still hanging around in the playoff race. Their offense featuring Corey Seager, Marcus Semien, and Adolis Garcia can score with anyone. Rookie sensation Josh Jung has also given them a spark since being called up. They still have an uphill climb, but can't be counted out just yet.

The Los Angeles Angels and Oakland A's are the other two teams in the division, but both have been non-factors for much of the season. Injuries have ravaged the Angels, while the A's are in rebuilding mode after trading away most of their top players.

What's at Stake Down the Stretch

The main thing at stake over the last few weeks is the division title. The AL West winner will not have to play in the Wild Card round and can rest up while the other playoff teams battle it out.

Beyond that, the two Wild Card spots are also up for grabs. Right now the Blue Jays, Rays, and Orioles are ahead of the Mariners and Rangers. But the Mariners and Rangers are within striking distance, so a late season push could catapult them into the postseason.

Astros Try to Hold Off Mariners

For the Astros, their goals are clear. They just need to hold off the Mariners and lock up their fifth division title in six seasons. Rookie shortstop Jeremy Pena has admirably filled in for the departed Carlos Correa, giving the lineup a boost.

With a playoff spot essentially secured, they also have the luxury of setting up their rotation for October. A 1-2 punch of Verlander and Framber Valdez could make them dangerous in a short playoff series.

Mariners Eye Elusive Playoff Berth

After two decades wandering in the wilderness, the Mariners can almost taste the playoffs. Rookie phenom Julio Rodriguez has electrified the fanbase and helped spark the offense. The pitching staff led by Robbie Ray, Luis Castillo, and Logan Gilbert has also been clicking on all cylinders.

The Mariners should lock up at least a Wild Card spot rather comfortably. Catching the Astros might be tougher. But after a magical season, expectations are growing in Seattle for a deep October run.

Sleeper Team to Watch

The dark horse in the AL West is undoubtedly the Rangers. With young players like Jung making an impact, they have the talent for a late season push. Their lineup can slug with anyone and they play hard under manager Chris Woodward.

The Rangers have a favorable schedule down the stretch and interestingly enough won the season series against both the Mariners and Astros. Catching Houston is unlikely at this point. But if Texas gets hot over these last few weeks, stealing away a Wild Card spot is possible.

Final Weeks Promise High Drama

Baseball fans, buckle up! The AL West standings are bound to change dramatically over the next couple weeks. The Astros and Mariners will be duking it out for the division crown. Meanwhile the Rangers likely need to go on a Torres-esque hot streak to crash the playoff party.

No matter what ends up happening, this figures to be a photo finish. Every game matters now with the postseason around the corner. So pay attention to those AL West scores! The final wild card spots and playoff seeding could be hanging in the balance each night.

FAQs

Which team currently leads the AL West?

The Houston Astros lead the AL West division with a xx-xx record as of September 15. They have a slim xx game lead over the Seattle Mariners.

How close is the AL West race?

The race is extremely tight. The Astros lead the Mariners by only a few games for the division title. Meanwhile, the Rangers are still in contention for a Wild Card playoff spot if they can get hot.

When was the last time the Mariners made the playoffs?

The Mariners have the longest active playoff drought in baseball, last making the postseason in 2001. This year they are right in the playoff mix and have a great chance to finally snap that skid.

Which AL West team has surprised people this year?

The Texas Rangers were expected to be in rebuilding mode but have played very competitive baseball in 2022. They have an explosive offense and have gone toe-to-toe with some of MLB's best teams.