Max Scherzer will take the mound for the Rangers in the series finale with the Astros on Sunday afternoon. It's time to continue our MLB odds series with a Rangers-Astros prediction and pick.
Rangers-Tigers Projected Starters
Max Scherzer vs. Ronel Blanco
Max Scherzer (1-2) with a 3.09 ERA with a 0.94 WHIP
Last Start: Max Scherzer allowed four runs (three earned) on eight hits and struck out six without walking a batter over 6.2 innings, taking a no-decision Tuesday versus the Angels.
2024 Road Splits: Scherzer has been solid at home and on the road where he is 0-1 with a 3.75 ERA and 1.17 WHIP.
Ronel Blanco(9-3) with a 2.53 ERA with a 0.99 WHIP
Last Start: Ronel Blanco allowed two runs on four hits and a walk while striking out seven over seven innings to earn the win over the Marlins on Tuesday.
2024 Home Splits: Blanco has been solid on the road and at home where he is 4-2 with a 2.60 ERA and 0.90 WHIP.
Here are the MLB Odds, courtesy of FanDuel.
MLB Odds: Rangers-Astros Odds
Texas Rangers: +1.5 (-205)
Moneyline: +110
Houston Astros:-1.5 (+168)
Moneyline: -130
Over: 8.5 (+100)
Under: 8.5 (-122)
How to Watch Rangers vs. Astros
Time: 2:10 PM ET/11:10 AM PT
TV: AT&T SportsNet Southwest, Bally Sports Southwest, MLB Extra Innings
Stream: fuboTV (Click for free trial)
Why The Rangers Will Cover The Spread/Win
The Texas Rangers, eager to cap off a successful road trip, are turning to their ace, Max Scherzer, as they face Ronel Blanco and the Houston Astros at Minute Maid Park on Sunday. Despite a slow start in his Rangers debut, Scherzer has quickly found his groove, and a matchup against the Astros could be the perfect stage for a vintage performance.
Scherzer's 1-2 record and 3.09 ERA might not scream dominance, but his recent outings have been nothing short of spectacular. He's allowed just two earned runs over his last three starts, showcasing the pinpoint command and devastating off-speed pitches that have made him a three-time Cy Young Award winner.
On the other side, Ronel Blanco's 9-3 record and 2.53 ERA are impressive, but he's shown signs of vulnerability lately, particularly against powerful lineups. The Rangers' offense, led by the red-hot duo of Corey Seager and Marcus Semien, has the potential to exploit Blanco's weaknesses and put runs on the board early.
The Astros' offense, despite being formidable, has struggled to consistently produce against top-tier pitching. This could play into Scherzer's hands, as he'll have the advantage of facing a lineup that's not firing on all cylinders.
The Rangers' bullpen, while not as deep as the Astros', has been reliable, and they'll be ready to protect any lead Scherzer can provide. The Rangers' veteran leadership and championship aspirations will be on full display as they aim to steal a win on the road against their division rivals.
While the Astros are always a tough out at home, the Rangers have the momentum and the ace on their side. If Scherzer can continue his recent dominance and the offense can capitalize on Blanco's struggles, the Rangers should have no problem silencing the Astros and returning to Texas with a hard-fought victory.
Why The Astros Will Cover The Spread/Win
The Houston Astros, defending their home turf, are placing their trust in the surging Ronel Blanco as they host Max Scherzer and the Texas Rangers at Minute Maid Park on Sunday. Blanco's recent performances have been nothing short of spectacular, and a matchup against the Rangers could further solidify his status as a rising star.
Blanco's 9-3 record and 2.53 ERA are a testament to his dominance this season. His ability to mix pitches, keep hitters off balance, and generate weak contact has been key to his success. The Astros believe that if Blanco can maintain his composure and command, he'll be more than a match for the Rangers' potent lineup.
On the other side, Max Scherzer's 1-2 record and 3.09 ERA in a Rangers uniform haven't quite lived up to the lofty expectations. While Scherzer has shown flashes of his Cy Young pedigree, he's also had moments of vulnerability, particularly against aggressive lineups. The Astros' patient approach and ability to work deep into counts could frustrate Scherzer and lead to scoring opportunities.
The Astros' offense, despite a few recent hiccups, boasts a deep and talented lineup capable of erupting at any moment. With Jose Altuve and Yordan Alvarez leading the charge, the Astros have the firepower to put runs on the board against any pitcher, including Scherzer.
The Astros' bullpen, one of the league's best, can shut the door if Blanco can keep the game close. Additionally, the Astros' home-field advantage, with the raucous Minute Maid Park crowd behind them, could provide an extra boost.
While the Rangers are eager to prove their mettle against a division rival, the Astros have the momentum and the home-field advantage. If Blanco can continue his stellar pitching and the offense can capitalize on Scherzer's occasional lapses, the Astros should have no problem securing a victory and sending a message to the rest of the league.
Final Rangers-Astros Prediction & Pick
Sunday's showdown at Minute Maid Park showcases a clash of titans as Max Scherzer's experience and intensity face Ronel Blanco's youthful exuberance. Scherzer, regaining his dominant form, presents a formidable challenge for the Astros' lineup. However, Blanco's recent success and the Astros' potent offense, backed by a roaring home crowd, cannot be underestimated. Expect a pitchers' duel early on, with both offenses struggling to break through. Ultimately, the Astros' depth and resilience will prevail in a tightly contested victory, fueled by timely hitting and Blanco's continued brilliance.
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Final Rangers-Astros Prediction & Pick: Houston Astros ML (-130), Under 8.5 (-122)
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