The Red Sox trailed early and had some anxious moments in the ninth, but their come-from-behind to start their three-game series in Tampa allowed Boston to maintain its lead over the Guardians, leap over the Astros and gain ground on the Yankees in an eventful night in the American League playoff races.

The Red Sox’s 11-7 win combined with the Mariners’ win over the Astros, moved Boston into a tie for the second wild card spot with Houston. Both teams are 84-70 and the Red Sox own the head-to-head tiebreaker.

The Guardians, who were under .500 earlier this month improved to 13-1 in their last 14 to stay hot at the right time. They’re 1½ games behind Boston and Houston.

The Guardians play three more at Minnesota, then host Detroit and Texas for three each to close out the season. The R

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