Indians face contending Astros on MLB.TV

There are seven games in the Major Leagues today, five of which include clubs locked in tight Wild Card races across both leagues.

The Astros, two games behind the Orioles for the second American League Wild Card, look to win a four-game series against the first-place Indians this afternoon in the first game of the day. Later, the Wild Card contending Yankees and Mariners each open series against division opponents. The Yankees are 2 1/2 games behind the O’s, while the Mariners are five games back.

• Standings

Meanwhile, in the National League, the Cardinals and Pirates each open series against NL Central opponents. The Cardinals and Mets are in a virtual tie for the second NL Wild Card, with the Pirates 4 1/2 games behind.

And the best place to watch all the drama unfold is on MLB.TV.

MLB.TV Premium has returned with the same features as last year, and is only $24.99 for the rest of the season. This package has the best value and provides access to more than 400 devices and a free subscription to the MLB.com At Bat Premium app (a $19.99 value). It offers the best picture quality ever — a new 60 frames per second — for supported devices.

Here’s what to watch for today in the Majors (all times ET):

Astros try to gain ground in Wild Card race: HOU@CLE, 12:10 p.m.David Paulino takes the mound for his Major League debut with the Astros as they go for a series win over the Indians, who lead the Tigers by 5 1/2 games in the AL Central. The Tigers sit between the Astros and the Orioles in the race for the second AL Wild Card, with Detroit one game behind the O’s and one game in front of Houston.

Paulino, the No. 76 overall prospect according to MLBPipeline.com, was a combined 5-4 with a 2.00 ERA and 106 strikeouts in 90 innings in the Minors this year. The right-hander owns a powerful fastball that can hit 97-98 mph. He’s starting in place of ace Dallas Keuchel, who is out indefinitely with inflammation in his left shoulder.

Trevor Bauer starts for the Indians, seeking his fifth consecutive quality start. In his last outing, Bauer allowed three runs in the first inning and then shut down the Marlins to finish two outs shy of a complete game.

Stat that matters: Astros rookie Alex Bregman has reached base in 21 consecutive games, batting .341 (31-for-91) with 14 extra-base hits, 23 RBIs and 20 runs scored in that span.

Yanks look to continue surge: TB@NYY, 7:05 p.m. The Yankees refuse to bow out of the postseason picture, as they have won four in a row and 17 of their last 26 games heading …

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