The MLB playoffs just got interesting

The GIST: From almost sweeps to suddenly serious, we’re one week out from the World Series and the Fall Classic tickets are still anyone’s for the taking. Go MLB, baby.

Houston Astros even series with Texas Rangers: The ’Stros scored early and often, tagging the Rangers’ pitching staff for 11 hits in last night’s 10–3 win, none louder than first baseman José Abreu’s massive three-run home run in the fourth inning. That ball might still be soaring.

• With the series now knotted at two, both teams will send their aces to the mound in hopes of grabbing a 3-2 lead — Houston’s Justin Verlander and Texas’ Jordan Montgomery toe the rubber for Game 5 today at 5:07 p.m. ET.

Arizona Diamondbacks hiss back at home: Call an ambulance, but not for them. After being routed by the Philadelphia Phillies in Tuesday’s Game 2, the Snakes walked off with a 2–1 Game 3 win yesterday, courtesy of this clutch hit from second baseman Ketel Marte and a stunning nine-strikeout performance from rookie pitcher Brandon Pfaadt.

• The stress fun continues tonight at 8:07 p.m. ET, where Arizona has a chance to stay undefeated at home in the postseason and tie this thing up.