The Astros (84-69) will host the Mariners (84-69) for a three-game series starting on Friday with first place in the division on the line. 'It brings the best out of a team when you're playing for something so significant,' Astros manager Joe Espada said. The Astros completed a critical three-game sweep of the Texas Rangers on Wednesday to take advantage of the Mariners' lone loss over their last 12 games. Brown leads the AL in adjusted ERA (185) and is eight strikeouts shy of recording his first 200-strikeout season. 'We do this for the fans,' Mariners closer Andres Munoz said after notching his 36th save on Thursday.