BOSTON -- The offensively surging Astros rolled into Fenway Park and knocked around their potential American League Division Series opponent, riding an early burst of offense en route to a 12-2 thumping over the Red Sox in Thursday's opener of a four-game series.
But even in defeat, there was a positive development for the Red Sox. The Yankees suffered a 9-6 loss to the Rays, putting Boston's magic number at one for winning the AL East with three games left.
The Yankees play at 1:05 p.m. ET on Friday against the Blue Jays, and if they lose that game, the Red Sox would clinch the division hours before they take the field for their 7:10 game against the Astros.