Boston faces another critical series with the Astros this week, hoping to enter September hanging close to the wild-card contenders.

Boston plays seven games against Houston and three against the Dodgers as it fights for a spot among the American League wild-card leaders.

Last week, Boston seemed finished, but the return of two key players has helped them gain ground and could lead to a playoff chase in September.

Boston is five games out in the chase for the AL’s final wild card and took “a step backward,” according to manager Alex Cora.

Boston has surged into contention for a playoff spot despite using a three-man rotation in July because of a rash of injuries.

With young players such as Triston Casas and Jarren Duran making for a brighter future, Boston should refrain from dealing minor-league prospects for a rental player bound for free agency.

Boston has won seven of its last eight games thanks to a high-powered offense led by Masataka Yoshida.

Boston has played itself into contention for a wild-card berth, but that may not be enough incentive to keep the team from being a seller at the deadline.