LEADING OFF

A look at what’s happening around the majors today: CLEVELAND CLOSES IN: The Indians can take over the AL Central lead with another win at Target Field.

The Indians will go with Adam Plutko (4-2, 4.55 ERA) against All-Star Jake Odorizzi (12-5, 3.61). The Twins have lost four in a row for the first time this season.

SANCHEZ STRING: Aaron Sanchez (4-14, 5.76 ERA) makes his second start for Houston, facing the Orioles at Camden Yards. Acquired from Toronto on July 31, he had quite a debut for the Astros, going the first six innings in a combined no-hitter against Seattle.

The Astros have won seven in a row and 17 of 20 to open a 10-game lead over Oakland in the AL West. They’ve also tied the Yankees for the best record in the league at 76-40 — the team with the top mark gets homefield advantage throughout the playoffs.

METS ON THE MOVE: Noah Syndergaard (8-5, 3.96 ERA) tries to keep the Mets surging when he starts at Citi Field against Washington.

New York has won seven in a row and 14 of 15. Syndergaard has a 1.78 ERA in five starts since the All-Star break, striking out 39. He has not allowed a homer since July 6.

Patrick Corbin (9-5, 3.43 ERA) will make his fifth start against New York this season. He is 1-1 with a 3.60 ERA in those games.

ON THE WAY: The AL Eastleading Yankees could get a couple of their big hitters back in the lineup this weekend. Catcher Gary Sanchez, who’s been sidelined by a strained left groin, is expected to be activated off the injured list for the game at Toronto.

Infielder Gleyber Torres, who’s missed three straight games with a core injury, might return during this series, manager Aaron Boone said.