American League
Tampa Bay v Texas
Bolstered by the mid-season acquisition of Cliff Lee, the left-hander, Texas easily won the AL West. The Rangers led the majors in batting average (.276) but hit only 162 homers. … Tampa Bay won the AL East on the final day of the season. Carl Crawford and Evan Longoria had solid years, but the Rays struggled at the plate and were no-hit twice.
Today at Tampa Bay Tomorrow at Tampa Bay Saturday at Texas Sunday at Texas Tuesday at Tampa Bay *
Minnesota v NY Yankees
Despite stumbling to a 13-17 finish, the Yankees had the third-best record in baseball as the AL wild card. Joe Girardi, the manager, rested regulars down the stretch. ... The Twins won the AL Central with time to spare, allowing the injured Joe Mauer (knee) and Jim Thome time to heal.
Today at Minnesota Tomorrow at Minnesota Saturday at New York Sunday at New York Tuesday at Minnesota *
National League
Cincinnati v Philadelphia
The Reds went 19-8 in August to pull away from St Louis and secure the NL Central. Joey Votto (.342, 37 homers, 113 RBI) is an MVP candidate. ... The Phillies were decimated by injuries early in the season, but Charlie Manuel's team got healthy and went on a 49-19 tear to win the NL East. Ryan Howard had 31 homers.
Today at Philadelphia Friday at Philadelphia Sunday at Cincinnati Monday at Cincinnati Wednesday at Philadelphia *
Atlanta v San Francisco
Atlanta won the NL wild card despite a nine-game losing streak and injuries sidelining Chipper Jones and Martin Prado. Jason Heyward is a rookie of the year candidate. ... San Francisco added Pat Burrell and Jose Guillen for power, and Buster Posey is expected to challenge Heyward for rookie of the year.
Tomorrow at San Francisco Friday at San Francisco Sunday at Atlanta Monday at Atlanta * Wednesday at San Francisco * *-if necessary
