Houston Astros vs
Kansas City RoyalsPredictions & Preview

Astros Look to Continue Dominance Against Royals in Three-Game Series, Playoff Spot in Sight

The Houston Astros and Kansas City Royals are set to face off in a three-game series, with both teams eyeing a playoff spot. The pitching matchup for Friday night's game will feature Hayden Wesneski for the Astros and Seth Lugo for the Royals. The game is scheduled to start at 7:40 PM EST. Houston is the favorite to win, with the line opening at -114 and not moving. For more information and top betting tips, continue reading this Astros/Royals prediction.

Betting Odds

• Moneyline: Astros -114 | Royals +102
• Spread: Astros -1.5 (+145) | Royals +1.5 (-165)
• Total: Over/Under 8 (-110)
• Based on the moneyline, the implied probability that Houston will win straight-up is 53%.

Houston vs Kansas City Stats

Houston Astros

The Houston Astros are coming off a successful sweep of the Blue Jays and are heading into their series with the Royals with a winning record of 13-11. They are currently ranked 22 in offense, scoring an average of 3.87 runs per game, and #4 in defense, allowing an average of 3.48 runs against them per game. Right-handed pitcher Hayden Wesnewski will start the series opener against the Royals, boasting a 1-1 record with an ERA of 3.91 and an impressive WHIP of 0.87. Despite some key injuries, including LF Taylor Trammell and RF Pedro Leon, the Astros are looking to continue their recent success.

Kansas City Royals Analysis

The Kansas City Royals, coming off their first playoff trip in nearly a decade, are currently four games under .500 as they face the Rockies in a doubleheader. Despite a slow start, the Royals won a close game against the Rockies on Tuesday. The team looks to improve their record as they prepare to battle the Astros in an upcoming series, with All-Star pitcher Seth Lugo starting the first game. Lugo has a 1-3 record this season with a 3.90 ERA. The team is dealing with several key injuries as they aim to climb back to a winning record. The Royals are ranked 26th in the league and have a strong defense, giving up an average of 3.92 points per game. They have a 10-14 overall record and look to capitalize on recent success against the Astros, who have struggled in previous matchups against Kansas City.

Houston Astros Likely to Continue Dominance Against Struggling Kansas City Royals

The Kansas City Royals have struggled in their recent games, losing each of pitcher Lugo's last three starts. On the other hand, the Houston Astros have been successful, winning each of Wesnewski's last two starts. The Royals have only managed to score two runs in their past three losses, showcasing their struggling offense this season with a team batting average of .212. Going up against Wesnewski, who boasts an impressive 0.87 WHIP for the season with only 16 hits allowed and four walks in four starts, the Royals face a tough challenge. The Astros, meanwhile, have been performing well offensively, averaging five runs per game in their last three outings. It is likely that they will secure a win against the struggling Royals. It is recommended to consider taking Houston with the money line for this matchup.

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