Arizona Diamondbacks vs
Houston AstrosPredictions & Preview

Astros and Diamondbacks Set to Clash in Series Finale with Houston Favored to Win

The Diamondbacks and Astros are set to face off in their series finale on Sunday evening. After Houston took the first game with an 8-0 victory, Arizona looks to bounce back with Ryne Nelson on the mound. The Astros will counter with Justin Verlander. The game is set to start at 7:05 EST at Minute Maid Park. Houston is currently favored to win with the betting line opening at -140.

Betting Odds

• Moneyline: Diamondbacks +120 | Astros -134
• Spread: Diamondbacks +1.5 (-172) | Astros -1.5 (+150)
• Total: Over/Under 8 (-110)
• Based on the moneyline, the implied probability that Houston will win straight-up is 57%.

Arizona vs Houston Stats

Arizona Diamondbacks

The Diamondbacks struggled in their first game of a crucial interleague matchup, falling 5 1/2 games back in the West but still holding onto the second Wild Card slot. Despite a recent offensive surge, hitting .255 and scoring 75 runs in their last 13 games, the pitching staff has struggled with a 4.56 team ERA and 5.63 ERA in their last 13 games. Shortstop Geraldo Perdomo has been a bright spot, hitting .283 with 8 hits, 4 RBIs, and 5 runs scored in September. Starting pitcher Nelson has 10 wins and 121 strikeouts on the season. The bullpen has posted a 4.31 ERA despite 32 wins and 35 saves. Catcher Jose Herrera is questionable after being hit with a backswing. Arizona is ranked 1 in offense, 27th in defense, and has a 79-64 record.

Houston Astros Analysis

The Houston Astros rebounded from a tough series in Cincinnati with a dominating performance against the DBacks, scoring 12 hits and showcasing strong pitching. The team has been performing well offensively, scoring 644 runs on the year and hitting .260 with a .722 OPS. Yordan Alvarez had an outstanding game, hitting two home runs and driving in six. On the pitching side, Houston has one of the better staffs in the American League with a team ERA of 3.67 through 141 games. Despite Justin Verlander's struggles since returning to the IL, the team's relievers have been solid with a 3.48 ERA, 25 wins, and 35 saves. Overall, the Astros have a power ranking of 9 and are ranked #12 for offense, #4 for defense, and have an overall record of 77-65. Arizona has had the upper hand in their last three matchups against Houston.

Houston Dominates Head-to-Head Matchups, but Diamondbacks Poised for Upset

The Houston team has demonstrated superiority in recent head-to-head matchups, as evidenced by Friday's shutout victory. This win marks their 40th victory at home this season and their fifth consecutive win at Minute Maid. Justin Verlander will be making just his second start at home since returning, and recent performances have raised concerns about his readiness. In his last outing, he struggled with control, issuing four walks and requiring 107 pitches to navigate 4 2/3 innings. If the Diamondbacks adopt a patient approach, they may be able to exploit Verlander's vulnerabilities. With the third-highest number of walks in the National League this season at 496, Arizona has proven their ability to wait for favorable opportunities. Merrill Kelly's strong showing in his previous start suggests he may continue this positive momentum as Arizona strives to maintain their position in the competitive Wild Card race. The Diamondbacks are the recommended choice in this matchup.

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