What happened: The Cleveland Guardians and Houston Astros sit level at 1-1 in their series, with the deciding game scheduled in Houston. Cleveland drew even in the clubs' previous meeting, and the two sides now turn to the finale to settle the set. First pitch has not yet been thrown.
Why it matters: The rubber game carries series stakes for two teams hovering near .500. Houston enters at 36-41 and Cleveland at 40-36, so the finale gives either club a shot at the season set while the standing holds at 1-1 until play begins.
By the numbers: Series tied 1-1. Houston is 36-41 on the season and has taken three in a row at home; Cleveland is 40-36. In the teams' most recent meeting on June 20, Cleveland posted an 8-1 result. Houston opened as the home favorite with the total listed at 8.5.
What to watch: Watch first pitch in the deciding game in Houston, the starting pitching matchup, and whether the Astros can hold home field to claim the season series.