Texas Heat: Astros, Rangers Renew Bitter Rivalry
Are you an MLB fanatic who has never heard of the “Lone Star Series?” Well, you aren’t alone because I had never heard of it either until about three minutes ago. Unless you are from Texas, this in-state rivalry between the Houston Astros and Texas Rangers is just another series on the schedule. But for fans of these teams, the “Silver Boot Series” is a huge deal.
Fandom is a huge part of the Astros vs. Rangers series and attracts a lot of betting activity. So, let’s first discuss the series itself, then dive into some MLB picks against the spread for Game 1 on Friday between the American League West rivals.
A Rivalry is Made
The rivalry between the Houston Astros and the Texas Rangers reflects Texas’s intense sports culture. Originally, Houston and Dallas-Fort Worth vied for major league baseball teams, leading to the establishment of the Astros in 1962 and the Rangers in 1972. The teams’ competition was formalized into the Lone Star Series in 2001, intensifying when the Astros joined the AL West in 2013.
This move facilitated more frequent matchups and increased the rivalry’s intensity, which was marked by memorable moments, brawls and playoff races. Significant events include Nolan Ryan’s unique affiliation with both teams, historic wins and a recent playoff series that showcased the fierce and evolving rivalry that captivates fans.
Astros vs Rangers this weekend https://t.co/3aHKko2kFk
— Apollo Dez (@ApolloDez1) April 3, 2024
Relevant Astros vs Rangers MLB Betting Trends
Key trends in the upcoming Astros vs. Rangers series highlight both teams’ recent performances. The Astros have a strong road record, winning their last nine away games and, specifically, holding an 8-0 record in their recent road games against the Rangers. However, the Astros have struggled overall, going 2-7 in their last nine games.
Conversely, the Rangers have been strong, winning seven of their last nine games but consistently losing at home to the Astros. Notably, games between these two teams have recently tended to go over the Vegas betting odds for total runs.
Astros vs Rangers Series Preview
Kicking off the 2024 Lone Star Series, Friday’s game is the first of 13 highly anticipated matchups, especially after last year’s postseason drama. The series starts with an 8:05 p.m. game on Friday, followed by evening games on Saturday and Sunday at 7:05 p.m. and 7:10 p.m., respectively. Fans are eager to see how the narratives from last October’s intense ALCS encounters unfold in this year’s series.
Before we make any MLB spread picks, let’s review this weekend’s starters.
Game 1
Hunter Brown, at 25, is set for his second start this season with the Astros, aiming for his initial win after last season’s entry with an 11-13 record and a 5.09 ERA over 31 games. Meanwhile, Texas’ own Cody Bradford, also gearing up for his second outing, looks to add another victory following a strong performance against the Cubs, where he notched six strikeouts in five innings.
Game 2
While Astros manager Joe Espada has yet to announce his starting pitcher, Jon Gray is anticipated to take the mound for Texas. The 32-year-old Gray, who formerly pitched for the Colorado Rockies, had a challenging start to the 2024 season. He surrendered five earned runs in his initial outing against the Cubs, leading to his exit in the fourth inning.
Game 3
The series climax features a pitching duel: Rangers rightly Dane Dunning, with a 1-0 record and testing a new slider, against Houston’s Ronel Blanco, who recently achieved the season’s first no-hitter in a 10-0 victory over the Blue Jays.
Astros vs Rangers Game 1 MLB Picks: Astros -1.5 (+115)
The Houston Astros head into Arlington as favorites on the MLB spread, with +115 odds to beat the -1.5 runline. The Astros are also out for blood after losing in the ALCS to the Rangers in seven games last season.
After a horrific start to the season, the Astros have bounced back in a big way. They’ve thrown a no-hitter and won their most recent game against the Toronto Blue Jays (8-0) in dominant faction.
With Brown’s commanding 1.59 ERA against the Rangers and the Astros’ potent lineup, led by Jose Altuve batting .345 and Kyle Tucker at .333, the odds are more than favorable. The Astros’ strategy to secure early runs and Brown’s prowess on the mound promise a game where the Astros not only win, but confidently cover the spread. It’s not just a bet; it’s the smart bet.
Questions of the Day
What is the all-time record for the Lone Star Series?
The Rangers lead the series, but not by much, with a record of 134- 132. If the Astros sweep the Rangers, they will take the lead on Sunday.
Who has better MLB odds to win the World Series between the Astros and Rangers?
The Astros are +800 to win the World Series while the Rangers are +1400 to repeat as champions in 2024.
The odds and predictions in the article are based on the time of writing and publication. They may differ as to when the actual event takes place.
