What happened: The game closes a three-game series with postseason positioning in play. Yamamoto will bring a 12-7 record against Sale’s 12-9 mark.
Why it matters: The clubs entered Thursday three games apart in the standings. Sale ranks third in the majors with a 2.20 ERA, raising the stakes for a potential low-scoring finale.
By the numbers: Sale has 166 strikeouts and a 1.97 ERA over his past 20 starts. Yamamoto owns a 2.61 ERA with 145 strikeouts and has recorded a quality start in three of his past four outings.
What to watch: Lineups and any late pitching changes are the remaining pregame checkpoints.