Does anyone want to win the AL West?
Over the past few weeks, both the Astros and Mariners have stumbled in their quest for a division title. The third-place Rangers have reeled off nine wins over their last 12 games. However, Texas still sits five games back of Houston. Who will come out on top in this Lone Star State showdown? Below, I’ve laid out my preview, prediction, and best bet for Friday’s battle between the Astros and the Rangers.
Houston is favored (-119) over Texas, with the over/under set at 7.5 runs. Let’s break down which side has the edge on DraftKings Sportsbook entering tonight’s contest.
Astros vs. Rangers prediction, preview
In this series opener, the Astros will be at a disadvantage on the mound. Making his 14th start of the season will be Colton Gordon. Through 68.2 innings of work, the left-hander has recorded a 5.64 ERA, 1.52 WHIP and 62 strikeouts. The 26-year-old has been especially bad lately, surrendering 14 earned runs over his previous three outings. In fairness to the southpaw, this isn’t the most difficult matchup. Since July 1st, the Rangers have recorded the league’s ninth-lowest OPS vs. left-handed pitchers (.706).
Offense has been an issue for Texas all season. The team has averaged 4.30 runs per game, the 11th-lowest mark in baseball. In addition, star shortstop Corey Seager (appendicitis) is out for the rest of the year. Still, this group has been resilient in recent weeks. Over their last ten contests, six different Rangers have produced an OPS of .800 or greater. That includes Adolis Garcia, slashing .382/.417/.588 during that time. The Cuban has gone 7-for-21 with three home runs in his career against Brown (.333 batting average).
The Rangers aren’t the only club with a red-hot slugger. Yordan Alvarez’s return has been a welcome sight for Astros fans. Since coming off of the injured list on August 26th, the All-Star is batting .500 with two homers and seven RBIs. However, his teammates haven’t done their part at the plate. Houston has scored 32 total runs over its last ten games, the second-lowest mark in baseball. It won’t get any easier tonight against Texas starter Merill Kelly. The former Diamondbacks hurler has posted a 3.31 ERA, 1.02 WHIP and 28 strikeouts since joining his new club in July.
Astros vs. Rangers pick, best bet
Best Bet: Rangers ML (-102)
Texas’ offense has been significantly better than Houston in recent weeks. With respect to Gordon, I also view Kelly as the far more talented arm. Better pitcher and a better offense as underdogs? Back the Rangers tonight.
