The Houston Astros got a much-needed day off after getting outscored 10-0 in their last two games. Not to worry, though, as they’ll get the perfect medicine for what’s ailing them: A matchup with the league-worst Oakland Athletics.
Oakland fell even further on Thursday with another loss, bringing their record down to 10-42. Is Houston an easy option for your MLB picks to get the job done here? Let’s take a closer look.
Astros: Offense Muzzled
The Houston Astros were shut out not just once, but twice in their last two games by the Milwaukee Brewers. They had some hits but not the timely ones they needed to get on the board.
If you bet online, you’re probably expecting that this extra day off in between series will help them regroup.
The Astros had won eight games in a row prior to the back-to-back losses.
Athletics Can’t Catch A Break
Even when the Oakland A’s keep games close and remain competitive, they continue to come up just short. This group remains on pace to be the worst team in league history, projected for over 130 losses this season. Needless to say, they’re not a good option for MLB odds.
They’ve now lost eight straight games, including three defeats to the Astros. It’s becoming harder and harder to find a reason to bet them in the sportsbook.
Starting Pitchers
Hunter Brown (4-1, 3.20 ERA) vs. James Kaprielian (0-4, 8.68)
Houston is going with Hunter Brown on the mound. Brown is off to a good start, with a 4-1 record and a 3.20 ERA. Batters have had a tough time tracking his pitches as he’s compiled 56 strikeouts in 50.2 innings of work.
The A’s struck out nine times when they faced Brown last week.
Oakland is sending out James Kaprielian, who is winless with an 0-4 record and a horrendous 8.64 ERA to partner with that. He has been okay this month, though, so careful writing him off for MLB betting.
He has a 3.00 ERA and a 1.08 WHIP this month, which far exceeds his season averages.
Astros vs Athletics Head-to Head
Despite Oakland’s struggles, the Athletics have battled well against Houston in the past two seasons. Houston holds the series lead 15 games to seven in this stretch, but one would expect the A’s have struggled more considering their track record.
Astros vs Athletics Game Information
- Game: Astros (28-21) vs Athletics (10-42)
- Location: Oakland Coliseum, Oakland, CA
- Day/Time: Friday, May 26, 9:40 p.m. ET
- Astros vs. Athletics Live stream: MLB.tv
Astros vs Athletics Betting Lines
Over/Under Pick
The total is listed at eight runs right now and the under seems enticing considering how these teams have played lately. Kaprielian is flying under the radar a little bit and Brown has already proven to have success against the A’s. Last time he faced them, the final score was 3-2.
Take the under in this one.
Pick: Under 8½ (-110)
Moneyline Pick
The juice is so high here that maybe live betting is a better option. Hope that the A’s go ahead like they did on Thursday night and then bet the Astros at a cheaper price.
On paper, though, the Astros are the team to bet on here.
Pick: Houston Astros -260
