Rays Edge Yankees, Earn Spot In ALCS Against Astros

In the ALDS, fans were treated to offensive explosions, epic pitching duels, and thrilling finishes. With their postseason lives on the line, everything came down to game 5. Tyler Glasnow was on the hill for the Rays. The Yankees' 300 million dollar man, Gerrit Cole, tossed 9 strikeouts, pitching on just three days rest for the first time in his career.

In the eighth inning, with the game tied 1-1, Mike Brosseau was the difference-maker. Facing Aroldis Chapman, who threw a 100 MPH fastball at his head earlier in the season, Brosseau took revenge by launching his pitch out of Petco Park. That gave the Rays the 2-1 lead, and ultimately the victory, as Diego Castillo picked up the win with four strikeouts in two innings of work.

Now, the Rays are headed into a rematch of last year's ALDS with the Houston Astros, who are making their fourth ALCS appearance in as many years. Much like the Yankees series, expect this one to be a battle from start to finish. The Astros swept the Twins in the Wild Card round and followed with a 3-1 series win over the A's. Houston averaged over eight runs per game during that span.

How will the Rays' pitching staff hold up against these hot-hitting Astros? If the postseason so far is any indication of what to expect, grab your favorite beverage, a Dugout Mug, and some popcorn because we're in for a show!