HOUSTON — Much as they did for most of this season of ups and downs, the Rays rebounded from the disappointment of the previous night to win their way into the playoffs Friday, beating the Astros, 7-3.
In reaching the postseason for a fourth straight season, the Rays joined the Blue Jays in the three-team American League wild-card field, with the Mariners needing a win in their late game to complete the grouping.
“It’s really exciting,” pitcher Shane McClanahan said before the game. “I’m really proud of this team. We’ve battled all year, we’ve fought, we’ve endured a lot of stuff. And to be in the situation we are now, where we have the opportunity to clinch, is something really special.”
