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American League Buzzing With Key Matchups Affecting Red Sox Playoff Route

To remain a contender for a 2010 American League playoff bid, the Red Sox not only have to keep an eye on the Yankees and Rays, but also on other strong teams in the league.

There are several key games going on Monday night that have an effect on the Red Sox wild card and AL races toward the postseason.

The Yankees and Blue Jays face off in Toronto in a series opening matchup at 7:07 p.m. New York heads into Rogers Centre with a 35-25 road record, and maintain first place in the AL East, one game ahead of Tampa Bay.

The first place teams in the AL West and AL Central are battling tonight in Arlington. The Minnesota Twins hold a five-game lead over the Chicago White Sox in the AL Central, and are facing off against the Texas Rangers, who hold a formidable eight-game lead over the Angels in the AL West.

The Rays will take on the Angels at 10:05 p.m. on Monday night in Los Angeles and post a 37-24 road record this season. Tampa Bay is currently atop the American League Wild Card race, posting a 5 1/2 game lead over the Red Sox.

To hear more about the league matchups, watch the segment below during Red Sox Gameday Live.