Houston Astros: What they need to make playoffs in Game 162

WEST SACRAMENTO, Calif. — This year’s American League West will be decided on the season’s final day.

Texas’ win, which concluded before the Astros began their game against the A’s at Sutter Health Park, put the pressure on Houston to win Saturday night — or risk entering Sunday’s season finale outside of the AL playoff picture.

An Astros loss Saturday night would send them into Sunday needing both a win and a Rangers loss to the Twins to claim the division.

With a win Saturday night, the Astros could only miss the postseason if they lose Sunday and Texas wins. The Astros have yet to announce a starting pitcher for Sunday’s regular-season finale.

Either way, this year’s AL West will produce MLB’s first division champion with a non-winning record in a full-length season in the divisional era. That team will host an AL wild-card series starting Tuesday.

Whether the Astros or Rangers claim that distinction will come down to Game 162.