Red-hot Houston Astros down Tampa Bay Rays, seal fifth AL West crown in past six years

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — The Houston Astros clinched their fifth American League West title in six years, getting a leadoff home run from Jose Altuve in a 4-0 victory over the Tampa Bay Rays Monday night.

Headed to the postseason for the sixth straight season, Houston won for the eighth time in nine games and improved the AL's best record to 97-51. A major league-best 16-4 (.800) in their last 20 games, the Astros are now assured of a first-round bye in the playoffs.

POP THE BOTTLES!