The Houston Astros won their fifth AL West title in six years despite finishing with the worst record for a first-place team, beating the Athletics 9-0 Sunday behind Lucas Spence's two-run triple to finish at 81-81.
Per ESPN's reporting, the Astros secured the division crown on the final day of the regular season, marking their fifth AL West championship since 2021.
The 81-81 record represents the lowest win total for a first-place team in MLB history, according to the source material provided.
Lucas Spence's two-run triple was a key offensive contribution in the 9-0 victory over the Athletics, which clinched the title for Houston.
Separate reporting from ESPN noted that Houston's Yordan Alvarez won his first batting title, adding to the team's offensive achievements during the season.
The Athletics, who lost the season finale, finished with a losing record and did not qualify for the postseason.
Despite the modest regular-season record, the Astros advanced to the playoffs as AL West champions, continuing their recent divisional dominance.
No other team in the AL West finished with a winning record, highlighting the division's overall competitiveness and Houston's relative standing.
The victory over Oakland concluded the Astros' regular season on a high note, setting up their playoff appearance.
ESPN's coverage emphasized the historical nature of the Astros' accomplishment, noting the rarity of a first-place team with a sub-.500 record.
This article synthesizes reporting from ESPN. Top story: "Astros win their 5th AL West title in the last 6 years, despite 81-81 record" (ESPN).