Homer-happy Astros clinch AL West for 7th time in past 8 seasons

Jason Heyward hit a go-ahead, two-run homer and made a dazzling defensive play as the Houston Astros beat the visiting Seattle Mariners 4-3 on Tuesday night to clinch their fourth consecutive American League West championship.

Alex Bregman and Kyle Tucker each added a solo home run for the Astros, who are headed to the post-season for the eighth year in a row.

The Astros, who won the division title for the seventh time in the last eight years, trailed by one with no outs in the fifth inning when Victor Caratini singled before moving to second on a sacrifice bunt by Jeremy Pena.

First-year Astros manager Joe Espada was overwhelmed as the final out was recorded.

"Oh my God. Unbelievable," he said. "Tears came out of my eyes. I'm emotional because I care about this team. I love this team, and the fact that we are in a position to compete for another World Series is special."

Heyward, who wowed on defence in the top of the inning, launched his home run to the second deck in right field off Logan Gilbert (8-12) to put Houston on top 4-3.

Four straight AL West titles for the Houston <a href="https://twitter.com/astros?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Astros</a>