As we enter the stretch drive of the MLB season, Houston finally has something to be excited about other than anticipation of NCAA and NFL football.  The Astros are relevant again and Red will keep you updated.  For the neophytes, a team’s magic number is the combined number of wins (in this case by the Astros) and losses (here by the Rangers) that will clinch either a division title or a wildcard playoff spot.  For example, if the Astros win 20 more games and the Rangers lose 13, the Astros will clinch the division.

Current lead:

4.5 games over the Rangers

Magic Numbers:

33 to clinch AL West Division

32  to clinch Wildcard playoff spot