Four AL East teams positioned for postseason as standings tighten

As of August 18, 2026, the Tampa Bay Rays, New York Yankees, Boston Red Sox, and Baltimore Orioles would all qualify for the postseason if it ended today. This scenario would mark the first time in Major League Baseball history for four teams from one division to reach the playoffs. The Orioles are currently tied with the Texas Rangers and Detroit Tigers for a wild card spot but hold the necessary tiebreakers. The Toronto Blue Jays are close behind, just half a game out of a wild card position. The Rays lead the division, while the Yankees and Red Sox are vying for the top two wild card spots.

• 4:47 PMYahoo Sports — AL East Would Make History If Season Ended Today