Standings courtesy of MLB.com

With both the Texas Rangers and the LA Angels having gone 7-3 in their last 10 games, not much has changed in the AL West standings in the past week. The Rangers were able to gain a game on the Angels since this time last week.

The story of late for the Rangers has been offense. Until last night’s game, the Rangers had 12 or more hits in 7 consecutive games, and hit 13 home runs this past week. Strong pitching performances from CJ Wilson, Colby Lewis, Matt Harrison and Derek Holland have slightly eased some worries about starting pitching should they make the postseason. Alexi Ogando, who has been struggling the past month, finally collected his first win in last night’s game against the Indians. Their magic number is 11.

For more on the Rangers, check out Big Game Claws.

The Angels are currently sitting in second, trying to gain some ground on the Rangers with only 6 games remaining. They have a pretty easy schedule for the remainder of the season with series in Baltimore and Toronto before returning home to face the A’s and the Rangers. However, should they be able to get within 3 games of the Rangers this week, they’ll have a shot at tying or taking the division when two teams play each other in Anaheim for the final series of the year. The Angels have a 7-16 record against the Rangers this year, with 4 of those wins being at home. The Angels are also only 4 games back in the Wild Card. So, keep you eye on those Red Sox and Tampa Bay Rays games this weekend. Their elimination number is 10.

The Athletics were eliminated from playoff contention this past Sunday, losing to the Rangers 1-8. The A’s will take on the Rangers next, so they could possibly help the Angels catch up to the Rangers.

The Mariners  are in will also be trying to play spoiler as they have two 3-game series against the Rangers remaining this season.