The MLB playoff picture is starting to take shape here in the middle of August, though there is always the potential for a major shakeup if one of the teams on the fringe of contention gets hot.

The Houston Astros visit the Detroit Tigers Monday, as the AL foes tussle in the opener of a 3-game set between division leaders.

Spencer Arrighetti gets the start as Houston opens a seven-game road trip in Detroit against the  Tigers, who lead the AL Central.

Catcher/first baseman Eduardo Valencia is hitting .290 with a .939 OPS in 21 games since he was promoted to Triple-A Toledo.

From the perspective of MLB insider Bob Nightengale of USA Today, the Tigers' trade deadline is still viewed as lackluster two weeks after their moves. His initial grade was a "D," and it remains a "D" after their additions have made their debuts.

How to watch the MLB game between the Detroit Tigers and the Houston Astros, as well as first-pitch time and team news.

The Arizona Diamondbacks and Detroit Tigers could end up coming together on a trade that would send Ketel Marte to the loaded American League club.

For one, all four Wild Card series are set to begin on Sept. 30, which lands on a Tuesday. That's two days after the Tigers are set to play their final game of the regular season, a road game against the pennant-chasing Boston Red Sox.