What happened: Fangraphs lists the Chicago White Sox at 82.2% and the Cleveland Guardians at 71.4% in its latest playoff-odds snapshot. The Houston Astros are right behind Chicago at 81.9%, while the Texas Rangers check in at 37.2%. Toronto is at 21.8%, Baltimore 3.4%, Detroit 1.6%, Seattle 0.4% and Minnesota 0.1%.
Why it matters: That projection adds another layer to Wednesday's scheduled matchup between Chicago and Cleveland, which opens with the series tied 1-1. A head-to-head game between two clubs already sitting near the top of the same playoff chase can tighten or widen the gap the model sees right now.
By the numbers: White Sox 82.2%; Astros 81.9%; Guardians 71.4%; Rangers 37.2%; Blue Jays 21.8%; Orioles 3.4%; Tigers 1.6%; Mariners 0.4%; Twins 0.1%.
What to watch: Watch whether Chicago can protect its edge or Cleveland can make up ground once the scheduled game gets underway. The next Fangraphs update will show how much this series shifts the playoff picture from here.