Surging Astros, scuffling Mariners battle for AL West lead

(Photo credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports)
A month ago, on June 18, the Houston Astros lost 2-0 to the lowly Chicago White to drop a season-worst 10 games back in the American League West.

When they open a three-game series Friday at Seattle, the streaking Astros will have a chance to move into a tie for the division lead.

The Astros have gone 17-6 since June 18, while the Mariners are 8-15 in that time.

"Roller