George Springer, Justin Verlander and the Houston Astros put a check mark in the September box. And amid the celebration of clinching their third straight AL West title, they already were thinking ahead to what they might achieve in October. "You can't ever take the first goal for granted," Verlander said. "I know everybody says we're going to win the World Series, but you can't do that without this first. So, step one complete. Now we have the divisional round coming up and we'll ... prepare for that and try to win 11 games." Springer hit a career-high three homers, Verlander posted his MLB-leading 20th win and the Astros secured the division crown in grand fashion, routing the Los Angeles Angels 13-5. read more https://www.espn.com/mlb/recap?gameId=401077056
