Tampa Bay hosts Houston for the first matchup on Saturday. It kicks off a three-game series. The teams play again Sunday and Monday in this series. Both clubs are fighting for playoff spots down the stretch. This series matters a lot for both AL races in the heat of the race. MVP hopefuls are on the rosters on both teams.

Houston's Yordan Alvarez is absent for the second straight game. The Astros have to adjust while he is out. The Astros posted a lineup for the crucial middle game. Seymour aims to rebound against Houston. ESPN has odds available for the Sept. 12 contest. First pitch comes at Saturday afternoon.