Red Sox still have wild-card chances

NOTES

The Red Sox (94-67) lost their chance to win the division on Saturday but have several ways to get the wild card and maintain their hopes of a second straight World Series championship.

They would win the wild card if they beat the Yankees today or the Indians (93-68) lose to the A.L. Central champion White Sox. If Boston loses and Cleveland wins, the wild card would be decided in a one-game playoff Monday at Fenway Park, with Matt Clement pitching for the Red Sox on three days’ rest.

Curt Schilling can clinch the playoff berth when he starts today.

He may not have to pitch against the Yankees’ top lineup. Some regulars may get to rest. Jaret Wright is starting for the Yankees in place of Mike Mussina.

If the Red Sox win the wild card, they would start the A.L. division series Tuesday at Chicago. The Yankees were waiting for their first-round foe to be determined: Cleveland or the Los Angeles Angels.

“We feel good about ourselves,” said Tony Graffanino, who had three of Boston’s seven hits. “I don’t care how you get in. We’ll take it any way we can get it.”

Of course, they’d rather get it today.

“Hopefully,” Clement said, “we’ll see what we’re used to seeing out of Curt Schilling.”

In the National League, the wild-card spot was still open, with Houston holding a one-game lead over Philadelphia.

If Houston loses today and Philadelphia wins, there would be a one-game playoff between the Astros and host Phillies Monday at Citizens Bank Park.

Dempster, Cubs sign extension

Chicago Cubs closer Ryan Dempster agreed to a $15.5 million, three-year contract extension through the 2008 season.

Dempster has 33 saves in 35 chances and is 4-0 with a 1.85 ERA in 57 relief appearances.

Clearing the bases

Don Zimmer will be back next year, not ready for retirement. The Devil Rays senior adviser plans to return in 2006 for his 58th year in pro baseball. Zimmer is completing his second season with Tampa Bay and has a contract that runs through next year. … Detroit manager Alan Trammell expects to meet with ownership on Monday to find out if he will be back for the final year of his contract. “Monday will be a big day,” Trammell said. “I’m not worried about it.” … Baltimore officials have indicated a decision may not be made until after the season on whether interim manager Sam Perlozzo will have his interim label removed. … An announcement on manager Jack McKeon’s future with Florida was expected either today or Monday.