Will Raleigh finish strong? Can Astros score without Alvarez? 5 things that will decide the AL West race

The upcoming series between the Seattle Mariners and Houston Astros will be crucial in determining the AL West division title and playoff seeding. Key factors that will decide the outcome include: 1. Raleigh's performance: Catcher Cal Raleigh's continued strong hitting could be a significant factor for the Mariners. 2. Astros' offense without Alvarez: The Astros' ability to score runs without the injured Yordan Alvarez will be tested. 3. Pitching matchups: The quality of starting pitchers in each game could give one team an edge. 4. Bullpen depth: Both teams' relief pitchers will play a critical role in close games. 5. Playoff implications: The division title and playoff positioning are at stake, adding extra pressure and importance to the series. The article suggests these factors will be crucial in determining whether the Mariners can catch the Astros or if Houston will maintain their lead in the AL West race.