The Boston Red Sox are on the verge of securing a postseason berth after a 7-1 victory over the Toronto Blue Jays in Game 159. With their magic number at one, the Red Sox can clinch a playoff spot as early as Thursday, even before their game begins, depending on the outcome of the Houston Astros' game against the Oakland Athletics, which starts at 3:30 p.m. A Red Sox win or an Astros loss would guarantee their entry into the playoffs. The Red Sox are currently 87-71, second in the AL wild-card standings, and three games behind the Blue Jays in the division. The Blue Jays, who have lost six of their last seven games and scored only five runs in those losses, are struggling to maintain their lead in the AL East. The Blue Jays will start Louis Varland, who has a 4-3 record and a 3.10 ERA, against Red Sox starter Brayan Bello, who is 11-8 with a 3.34 ERA. The game is scheduled for 7:07 p.m. and will be broadcast on NESN and WEEI-FM 93.7. The Red Sox are aiming to sweep the Blue Jays and potentially move into first place in the AL East, depending on the Yankees' game against the White Sox, which the Yankees won 8-1. The Blue Jays have been hampered by poor offensive production and pitching struggles, while the Red Sox are riding a strong road trip, with a 4-1 record, boosting their playoff hopes.