Astros and Orioles to Battle for Postseason Placement in High-Stakes Series Opener

Game outlook

This 3-game series starts on Monday night (8:10 PM EST) and it is between the Baltimore Orioles and Houston Astros teams who might meet again in October. Orioles clinched a playoff spot by winning on Sunday and have been challenging Tampa Bay Rays to win the AL East division. On the other hand, Astros have a 1.5-game lead over both Mariners and Rangers heading into this series.

Game Info

When: Monday, 9/18/2023 @ 8:10pm EST

Where: Minute Maid Park Stadium Orioles vs Astros Betting Odds Moneyline: Orioles +132 | Astros -150

Spread: Orioles +1.5 (-161) | Astros -1.5 (+140)

Total: Over/Under 8.5 (-110)

Based on the moneyline, the implied probability that Houston will win straight-up is 60%.

Baltimore Orioles

• Baltimore Orioles have made the postseason for the first time since 2016 • Have a 3-game lead in the loss column over the Rays • John Means is set to start against the Astros in a potential playoff-preview series • Power ranking of 5, ranked 6 in offense and 9 in defense • 93-56 this season

Houston Astros Analysis

• Astros are back on top in AL West Division and are close to another division title • Last weekend dropped two out of three games to the Royals • Avoided being swept on Sunday with 7-1 win • Monday have Justin Verlander pitching for them • Astros ranked 6th in power rankings, 5th in offense (5.15 ppg) and 11th in defense (4.37 ppg) • Baltimore went 2-1 in their last 3 matchups against Houston