Two straight losses have put any chances at a playoff berth in jeopardy for the Rangers. However, Texas will send staff ace Jacob deGrom to the mound tonight. Can the superstar lead his club to a much-needed win over the rival Astros? Below, I’ve laid out my preview, prediction, and best bet for Wednesday’s meeting between the Texas Rangers and the Houston Astros.
Texas is favored (-137) over Houston, 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.
Rangers vs. Astros prediction, preview
As previously mentioned, deGrom is the headliner in this matchup. Assuming the Rangers don’t reach the postseason, this might be one of the righty’s final outings of 2025. What a season it’s been so far; through 162.2 innings of work, he’s recorded a 2.82 ERA, 0.92 WHIP and 171 strikeouts. The two-time Cy Young winner has allowed four or more runs in just three of his outings this year. Over three meetings with Houston, the veteran has surrendered a total of five earned runs (3.12 ERA).
None of those numbers bode well for opposing offenses. That’s especially true for a group that has struggled at the plate all season. The Astros are averaging 4.26 runs per game, the American League’s fifth-lowest mark. The return of Yordan Alvarez came at the right time, boosting a previously anemic lineup. Unfortunately for Houston, the slugger left Monday’s contest with a sprained ankle and is expected to miss an extended period of time.
Without their most dangerous hitter, runs will be hard to come by for the ‘Stros. If Houston is going to win tonight, it’ll likely take a stellar showing from pitcher Cristian Javier. In six starts since returning from the injured list, the righty has notched a 4.78 ERA, 1.29 WHIP and 26 strikeouts. During his last two games, the hurler has coughed up eight earned runs (6.97 ERA). To be fair, Texas hasn’t been an offensive powerhouse. Since September 1st, the Rangers have scored the sixth-fewest total runs in baseball (55). Outfielder Adolis Garcia has struggled mightily in this matchup, as well. Over 23 career at-bats vs. Javier, the former All-Star has only produced three hits (.130 batting average).
Rangers vs. Astros pick, best bet
Best Bet: Rangers ML (-137)
It’s tempting to go with the Astros as home dogs, especially following two straight wins. However, a series sweep is tough to imagine. Neither of these clubs look intimidating at the plate right now. Keeping that in mind, I’ll back the superior pitcher in deGrom to deliver a victory for Texas.
