Houston Astros betting odds line spread pick predictions best bets

Houston Astros vs. Colorado Rockies odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Sunday’s Houston Astros vs. Colorado Rockies odds and lines, with MLB expert picks, predictions and best bets.

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The Houston Astros (8-19) and Colorado Rockies (7-20) wrap up a 2-game interleague series at Estadio Alfredo Harp Helu in Mexico City. First pitch is scheduled for 4:05 p.m. ET (ESPN). Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Astros vs. Rockies odds and make our expert MLB picks and predictions for the best bets.

Season series: Astros lead 1-0

The Astros haven’t played anywhere close to their recent standards, but Houston picked up a 12-4 win in Mexico City against Colorado, as Yordan Alvarez swatted 2 of the team’s 3 homers. Houston (-205) cashed as the favorite with the Under (16.5) just coming in at most shops.

Estadio Alfredo Harp Helu sits at 7,349 feet about sea level, which is roughly more than 2,000 feet higher than Coors Field in Denver.

The Rockies have dropped 4 of the past 6 games, and they’re 3-10 in the past 13 outings. The Under and Over have alternated in each of the past 7 contests.

Astros vs. Rockies projected starters

LHP Framber Valdez vs. LHP Austin Gomber

Valdez (0-0, 2.19 ERA) makes his 3rd start. He has a 1.38 WHIP, 4.4 BB/9 and 7.3 K/9 in 12 1/3 IP.

Last start: No-decision, 7 2/3 IP, 0 ER, 6 H, 0 BB, 5 K in 2-1 home loss vs. Toronto Blue Jays Tuesday
2023 road splits: (8-3, 3.56 ERA) with a 1.21 WHIP, 37 BB, 93 K and .224 opponents’ batting average (OBA) in 96 IP (15 starts)

Gomber (0-1, 4.32 ERA) makes his 6th start. He has a 1.48 WHIP, 4.0 BB/9 and 7.2 K/9 in 25 IP.

Last start: No-decision, 5 IP, 1 ER, 4 H, 3 BB, 2 K in 3-1 home loss vs. San Diego Padres Monday
Career vs. Astros: (1-1, 4.50 ERA) with a 1.00 WHIP, 2 BB, 11 K in 2 starts across 12 IP

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Astros vs. Rockies odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 7:17 a.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Astros -210 (bet $210 to win $100) | Rockies +170 (bet $100 to win $180)
Run line (RL)/Against the spread (ATS): Astros -1.5 (-155) | Rockies +1.5 (+120)
Over/Under (O/U): 16.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

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Astros vs. Rockies picks and predictions

Prediction

Astros 10, Rockies 9

Moneyline

The Astros (-210) will set you back more than 2 times your potential return, and that’s much too big of a risk for a small return.

At this venue, anything can happen, as we’ll see several more homers at altitude.

PASS.

Run line/Against the spread

The ROCKIES +1.5 (+120) are worth a look at plus-money catching the run and a half. This should be a wild series finale in Mexico City, with plenty of power on display on both sides.

Colorado is a respectable 5-6 on the run line as an underdog, including 3 outright victories as a heavy ‘dog.

While the Astros -1.5 (-155) won Saturday’s series opener, Houston had lost the past 5 outings, and it is just 1-3 in the past 4 games as a favorite on the run line.

Over/Under

OVER 16.5 (-110) is a giant number, but now that the batters have had a full game under their belt, they’ll know what to expect. This game should see a few more runs than we saw in the series opener.

Colorado pitching has allowed 21 runs in the past 2 games, and at least 5 runs in 3 in a row, and 9 of the past 13 outings.

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Houston Astros vs. Colorado Rockies odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Saturday’s Houston Astros vs. Colorado Rockies odds and lines, with MLB expert picks, predictions and best bets.

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The Houston Astros (7-19) and Colorado Rockies (7-19) open a 2-game interleague series at Estadio Alfredo Harp Helu in Mexico City. First pitch is scheduled for 6:05 p.m. ET (MLB Network). Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Astros vs. Rockies odds and make our expert MLB picks and predictions for the best bets.

Season series: First meeting; Astros won 3-1 in 2023

The Astros have gotten off to a brutal start, winning just 7 times in the first 26 games. Houston has dropped 5 in a row and 8 of the past 9 outings. The Under has cashed in 5 straight while going 8-0-1 in the past 9 contests since April 15.

The Rockies picked up a 10-9 win against the San Diego Padres in the series finale Thursday, splitting a 4-game set with the division rivals. The Under is 8-4 in the past 12 games for Colorado.

The books are expecting fireworks, as the venue in Mexico City sits at 7,349 feet above sea level, which is more than 2,000 feet higher than Coors Field in Denver.

Astros vs. Rockies projected starters

RHP Ronel Blanco vs. RHP Cal Quantrill

Blanco (2-0, 1.33 ERA) makes his 5th start of the season. He has a 0.85 WHIP, 4.0 BB/9 and 7.3 K/9 in 27 innings.

Last start: No-decision, 6 IP, 2 ER, 5 H (1 HR), 3 BB, 6 K in 5-4 road loss in 10 innings vs. Washington Nationals April 20
2024 road splits: (1-0, 1.50 ERA) with a 1.08 WHIP, 7 BB, 10 K and .146 opponents’ batting average in 2 starts across 12 IP

Quantrill (0-2, 4.33 ERA) makes his 6th start. He has a 1.48 WHIP, 4.0 BB/9 and 5.0 K/9 in 27 innings.

Last start: No-decision, 6 IP, 0 ER, 3 H, 5 BB, 4 K in 2-1 home win in 10 innings vs. Seattle Mariners Sunday
Career vs. Astros: (1-1, 2.75 ERA) with a 1.32 WHIP, 8 BB, 14 K in 3 starts and 2 relief appearances

Astros vs. Rockies odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 10:20 a.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Astros -225 (bet $225 to win $100) | Rockies +180 (bet $100 to win $180)
Run line (RL)/Against the spread (ATS): Astros -2.5 (-120) | Rockies +2.5 (+100)
Over/Under (O/U): 16 (O: -105 | U: -115)

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Astros vs. Rockies picks and predictions

Prediction

Astros 8, Rockies 6

Moneyline

The Astros (-225) will cost you more than 2 times your potential return, and that’s way too much risk for not enough reward, especially in a venue the players aren’t terribly familiar with.

The Rockies (+180) enter with an identical record as the more heralded Astros, and it is tempting to play the larger underdog.

PASS.

Run line/Against the spread

The ROCKIES +2.5 (+100) at even-money catching the runs is the best bet here. Both of these teams should hit early and often at high elevation, and no lead is expected to be safe. This game should be like Coors Field on steroids, so buckle up and expect a rough ride until the end.

Over/Under

UNDER 16 (-115) is the lean, but go lightly with a half-unit play at most.

This game is being played at high elevation, but a total of 16 is quite a high number. It will be interesting to see how the teams acclimate, as even the Rockies could have trouble moving up 2,000 feet in elevation.

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Houston Astros at Chicago Cubs odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Thursday’s Houston Astros at Chicago Cubs odds and lines, with MLB expert picks, predictions and best bets.

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The Chicago Cubs (15-9) meet the Houston Astros (7-18) at Wrigley Field Thursday with 1st pitch in the final game of the 3-game series set for 2:20 p.m. ET. Let’s analyze FanDuel Sportsbook’s lines around the Astros vs. Cubs odds and make our expert MLB picks and predictions for the best bets.

Season series: Cubs lead 2-0

The Cubs beat the Astros 7-2 on Tuesday and 4-3 on Wednesday. They have won 5 of their last 7 games and are 9-3 at home. Chicago has been among the best teams for bettors too, posting a 17-7 against-the-spread (ATS) record.

The Astros have lost 4 straight games, dropping 2 against the Cubs and the final 2 games of a 3-game series against the Washington Nationals. Houston is 3-11 over the last 15 days and is struggling, sitting 5th in the American League West. It is 8-17 ATS on the season.

Astros at Cubs projected starters

RHP Justin Verlander vs. RHP Javier Assad

Verlander (1-0, 3.00 ERA) makes his 2nd start. He has a 0.67 WHIP, 0.0 BB/9 and 6.0 K/9 in 6 IP.

Last start: Win, 6 IP, 2 ER, 4 H, 0 BB, 4 K in 5-3 win vs. the Washington Nationals Friday
2023 road splits: 7-3, 3.20 ERA (76 IP, 27 ER — 6 HR), 74 H, 26 BB, 62 K, .345 opponent SLG in 13 starts
Is 2-0 with a 1.98 ERA in 2 career starts vs. Cubs with 12 K in 13 2/3 IP

Assad (2-0, 2.11 ERA) makes his 5th start. He has a 1.03 WHIP, 3.4 BB/9 and 8.9 K/9 in 21 1/3 IP.

Last start: No-decision, 4 2/3 IP, 1 ER, 3 H, 3 BB, 3 K in 3-2 loss vs. the Miami Marlins Saturday
2024 home splits: 1-0, 0.84 ERA (10 2/3 IP, 1 ER — 0 HR), 7 H, 4 BB, 8 K, .250 opponent SLG in 2 starts
Cubs are 2-2 in his starts

Astros at Cubs odds

Provided by FanDuel Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated Wednesday at 11:31 p.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Astros -132 (bet $132 to win $100) | Cubs +112 (bet $100 to win $112)
Run line (RL)/Against the spread (ATS): Astros -1.5 (+126) | Cubs +1.5 (-152)
Over/Under (O/U): 8 (O: -105 | U: -115)

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Astros at Cubs picks and predictions

Prediction

Astros 4, Cubs 2

Moneyline

BET ASTROS (-132).

The Cubs have one of the best home records in the MLB, but they have just 1 sweep this season which came against the Colorado Rockies, who sit last in the National League West.

The Astros were 15-12 in games Verlander started last season and 1-0 this season. They have tallied at least 4 runs in 3 of their last 6 games. The Houston offense should come alive while the Cubs’ season-long trends suggest they’ll struggle to close the series out.

Take ASTROS (-132).

Run line/Against the spread

PASS.

There’s not much value here either way. The Astros -1.5 (+126) are too risky as a run-line favorite here while the Cubs +1.5 (-152) are too expensive as a run-line underdog, especially considering how well Assad has pitched at home.

Ultimately, avoid this play.

Over/Under

LEAN UNDER 8 (-115).

The Cubs are 11-13 O/U on the season and have gone Under in 4 of their last 5 games. Chicago has allowed 3 or fewer runs in 4 of its last 6 games. It has gone Under the projected total in Assad’s last 2 starts as well.

The Astros have gone Under in 4 straight games and are 0-7-1 O/U in their last 8, pushing in a 5-3 win against the Nationals in Verlander’s lone start. Houston is 8-15-2 O/U on the season.

Considering the season-long trends for both sides and the strength of the pitching that’ll start on the mound, back UNDER 8 (-115).

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Houston Astros at Chicago Cubs odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Wednesday’s Houston Astros at Chicago Cubs odds and lines, with MLB expert picks, predictions and best bets.

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The Houston Astros (7-17) and Chicago Cubs (14-9) play the 2nd game of a 3-game series at Wrigley Field Wednesday. First pitch is scheduled for 7:40 p.m. ET. Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Astros vs. Cubs odds and make our expert MLB picks and predictions for the best bets.

Season series: Cubs lead 1-0

The Cubs, who were -102 underdogs, beat the Astros 7-2 in the series opener Tuesday as the Under (10) hit. Chicago jumped on Astros RHP J.P. France with 5 runs in the 1st inning. France (5 IP) didn’t allow another run after the 1st frame, but Houston was unable to pull off the comeback.

Each team had 6 hits. Cubs batters drew 7 walks compared to just 1 for the Astros.

Astros at Cubs projected starters

RHP Spencer Arrighetti vs. RHP Jameson Taillon

Arrighetti (0-2, 11.57 ERA) makes his 3rd start of the season. He has a 2.28 WHIP, 6.4 BB/9 and 10.3 K/9 in 7 innings.

Last start: Loss, 5 IP, 2 ER, 4 H, 2 BB, 5 K in 6-1 loss to Atlanta Braves April 15
1.09 OPS in 1 road start this season vs. 0.68 in 1 start at home

Taillon (1-0, 1.80) makes his 2nd start this season. He was 8-10 with a 4.84 ERA, 1.27 WHIP, and 8.2 K/9 in 154 1/3 innings last season.

Last start: Win, 5 IP, 1 ER, 3 H, 0 BB, 4 K in 8-3 victory over Miami Marlins Friday
All 3 hits allowed Friday were after batter swung at 1st pitch
Career vs. Astros: 0-1, 5.18 ERA (24 1/3 IP, 14 ER) in 4 starts

Astros at Cubs odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 1:09 p.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Astros -105 (bet $105 to win $100) | Cubs -115 (bet $115 to win $100)
Run line (RL)/Against the spread (ATS): Astros -1.5 (+165) | Cubs +1.5 (-200)
Over/Under (O/U): 7.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

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Astros at Cubs picks and predictions

Prediction

Cubs 4, Astros 3

Moneyline

The Cubs have one of the best home records this season (8-3). Houston, on the other hand, is only better than the Chicago White Sox and Colorado Rockies on the road (3-8).

And so far this season, the Astros have only won the 2nd game of a series once in 7 tries.

BET CUBS (-115).

Run line/Against the spread

The Cubs cover 68% on the run line on no rest, while the Astros are near the bottom with a 35% cover rate.

But at -200, it is best to stick with the moneyline.

PASS.

Over/Under

Both these teams have trended towards the Under recently. In the last 10 games, the Astros have gone 6-3-1 to the Under, while the Cubs are 7-3.

On its current road trip, Houston is 3-0-1 to the Under, while Chicago on its homestand is 3-2.

LEAN UNDER 7.5 (-110).

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Houston Astros at Chicago Cubs odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Tuesday’s Houston Astros at Chicago Cubs odds and lines, with MLB expert picks, predictions and best bets.

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The Chicago Cubs (13-9) welcome the Houston Astros (7-16) to Wrigley Field for the opener of a 3-game series Tuesday. First pitch is set for 7:40 p.m. ET (TBS). Let’s analyze FanDuel Sportsbook’s lines around the Astros vs. Cubs odds and make our expert MLB picks and predictions for the best bets.

Season series: First meeting; Astros won 3-0 last year

The Cubs lost to the Miami Marlins 6-3 Sunday, but they did win 2 of 4 in the series. Chicago has won 6 of its last 9 and is a strong 7-3 straight up at home. It is 15-7 on the run line this season.

The Astros, who were among the best teams in the AL West last season, have struggled out the gate, losing 5 of their last 6. They lost 6-0 to the Washington Nationals Sunday, closing as -162 favorites. Houston is 1-5 in its last 6 on the road.

Astros at Cubs projected starters

RHP J.P. France vs. LHP Jordan Wicks

France (0-2, 7.08 ERA) makes his 5th start. He has a 1.67 WHIP, 3.5 BB/9 and 7.1 K/9 in 20 1/3 innings.

Last start: No-decision, 5 IP, 2 ER, 4 H, 1 BB, 4 K in 5-4 loss to Atlanta Braves at home Wednesday
2024 road stats: Loss, 5 2/3 IP, 3 ER, 8 H, 2 BB, 4 K in 1 start, a 7-2 loss vs. Texas Rangers April 6
2023 road splits: 6-2, 3.11 ERA (66 2/3 IP, 23 ER — 7 HR), 64 H, 25 BB, 47 K in 11 starts and 1 relief appearance

Wicks (0-2, 5.29 ERA) makes his 5th start. He has a 1.76 WHIP, 4.8 BB/9 and 12.7 K/9 in 17 innings.

Last start: No-decision 4 1/3 IP, 2 ER, 5 H, 1 BB, 5 K in 5-3 road win over Arizona Diamondbacks Wednesday
2024 home stats: Loss, 4 2/3 IP, 2 ER, 6 H, 1 BB, 7 K in 1 start, a 4-1 loss vs. Los Angeles Dodgers April 6
2023 home splits: 2-0, 3.55 ERA (12 2/3 IP, 5 ER — 2 HR), 13 H, 1 BB, 4 K in 2 starts

Astros at Cubs odds

Provided by FanDuel Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 10 a.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Astros -118 (bet $118 to win $100) | Cubs +100 (bet $100 to win $100)
Run line (RL)/Against the spread (ATS): Astros -1.5 (+132) | Cubs +1.5 (-160)
Over/Under (O/U): 10 (O: -106 | U: -114)

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Astros at Cubs picks and predictions

Prediction

Cubs 5, Astros 3

Moneyline

BET CUBS (+100).

The Cubs have been difficult to beat at home. They are 7-3 straight up but also 2-1 straight up as underdogs. The Cubs are even better following a loss, which they are here. They are 6-2 straight up after a loss, the 3rd-best record in that situation in MLB.

As for Houston, it is the 3rd-worst team in MLB as a favorite, posting just a 5-12 record. It is also just 3-7 on the road this season. Combine all the trends, and at this value, back CUBS (+100).

Run line/Against the spread

PASS.

For the more risk-adverse bettors, the Cubs as run-line underdogs make sense, but the better value here is on the moneyline.

Over/Under

LEAN UNDER 10 (-114).

The Cubs are 1-2 O/U in their last 3 and 2-3 O/U in their last 5. Chicago is 11-11 O/U on the season and, more importantly, 1-3 O/U when Wicks takes the mound.

The Astros have scored 5 or fewer in their last 6 games. They are 0-5-1 O/U in their last 6 and 8-13-2 O/U on the season. Houston is 1-3 O/U as well when France takes the mound.

Despite some struggles from the starters this season, back UNDER 10 (-114).

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Houston Astros at Washington Nationals odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Friday’s Houston Astros at Washington Nationals odds and lines, with MLB expert picks, predictions and best bets.

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The Houston Astros (6-14) and Washington Nationals (8-10) meet Friday for the opener of a 3-game series. First pitch from Nationals Park is set for 6:45 p.m. ET. Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Astros vs. Nationals odds and make our expert MLB picks and predictions for the best bets.

Season series: First meeting; Houston won 2-1 last season

Houston suffered a 5-4 loss at the hands of the Atlanta Braves Wednesday while failing to cash as a +119 home underdog. Houston was swept 3-0 by Atlanta, allowing the Braves to score at least 5 runs in every game. The Astros have lost 3 straight games and are only 2-4 in their last 6 at home.

Washington picked up a 2-0 win over the Los Angeles Dodgers Wednesday as a +196 road underdog. The Nationals have won 2 of their last 3 games. Wednesday’s win wrapped up a 9-game road stretch for the Nationals, who went 5-4 over that span.

Astros at Nationals projected starters

RHP Justin Verlander vs. LHP MacKenzie Gore

Verlander (13-8, 3.22 ERA in 2023) makes his season debut. He had a 1.13 WHIP, 2.5 BB/9 and 8.0 K/9 through 162 1/3 IP in 27 starts last season as a member of the Astros and New York Mets.

2023 road splits: 7-3, 3.20 ERA (76 IP, 27 ER), 65 H, 26 BB, 62 K across 13 starts
Career vs. Washington: 4-0, 1.85 ERA (24 1/3 IP, 5 ER), 18 H, 9 BB, 27 K through 4 starts

Gore (2-0, 2.81 ERA) makes his 4th start. He has a 1.19 WHIP, 2.8 BB/9 and 12.9 K/9 in 16 innings.

Last start: Win, 5 IP, 0 ER, 4 H, 1 BB, 11 K in 3-1 road win vs. Oakland Athletics Saturday
Career vs. Houston: No-decision, 5 2/3 IP, 0 ER, 4 H, 3 BB, 4 K in 1 start, a 4-1 road win June 15, 2023

Astros at Nationals odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated Thursday at 9:10 p.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Astros -175 (bet $175 to win $100) | Nationals +145 (bet $100 to win $145)
Run line (RL)/Against the spread (ATS): Astros -1.5 (-105) | Nationals +1.5 (-115)
Over/Under (O/U): 8.5 (O: -120 | U: +100)

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Astros at Nationals picks and predictions

Prediction

Astros 3, Nationals 2

Moneyline

PASS.

I like Houston (-175) to win here, as the Astros have won 3 of their last 4 vs. Washington (+145) and are 6-4 in the last 10 meetings. However, the Astros are not worth the risk of betting on as such heavy favorites, especially with how cold they are entering this matchup.

Bet the run line and/or Over/Under instead.

Run line/Against the spread

LEAN NATIONALS +1.5 (-115).

The Nationals are 5-1 ATS in their last 6 games overall and 3-0 ATS in their last 3 games vs. the American League. Washington is also 11-7 ATS this season, while the Astros are only 7-13 ATS this year.

The Astros are also very cold. They’ve lost 3 straight and are only 3-7 in their last 10 games, which makes this bet slightly safer.

This is only a lean because neither team is very hot and the Nationals are only 2-4 at home this season.

Over/Under

BET UNDER 8.5 (+100).

The Under has hit in each of Houston’s last 3 games and is 11-8-1 for the Astros this season.

For Washington, the Under has hit in back-to-back games and is 7-3 in its last 10 outings.

The Under has also hit in 3 of the last 4 Houston-Washington matchups.

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Atlanta Braves at Houston Astros odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Tuesday’s Atlanta Braves at Houston Astros odds and lines, with MLB expert picks, predictions and best bets.

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The Atlanta Braves (10-5) take on the Houston Astros (6-12) Tuesday in the 2nd game of a 3-game set at Minute Maid Park at 8:10 p.m. ET (TBS). Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Braves vs. Astros odds and make our expert MLB picks and predictions for the best bets.

Season series: Braves lead 1-0

The Braves took the opener 6-1, but they navigated a 2-1 lead from the 2nd inning to the 9th before posting 4 runs in the final frame. The Braves have won 2 in a row and 3 of 4. DH Marcell Ozuna recorded his league-leading 22nd RBI Monday.

The Astros laid an egg, but at least 2B Jose Altuve cashed a +115 total bases prop for us. They scored just 1 run on 7 hits, and Altuve had 3 of them. He’s hitting .403 with 5 homers, 7 RBI and 14 R on the young season. The ‘Stros have now lost 5 of 7 in a rough start to the season.

Braves at Astros projected starters

RHP Reynaldo Lopez vs. RHP Hunter Brown

Lopez (1-0, 0.75 ERA) makes his 3rd start. He has a 1.00 WHIP, 3.8 BB/9 and 8.3 K/9 over 12 IP.

Last start: Win, 6 IP, 0 ER, 3 H, 3 BB, 6 K vs. New York Mets last Tuesday
2 career starts vs. HOU: 0-1, 3.72 ERA, 1.96 WHIP, 4 K in 9 2/3 IP

Brown (0-2, 16.43 ERA) makes his 4th start. He has a 3.91 WHIP, 8.2 BB/9 and 9.4 K/9 in 7 2/3 IP.

Last start: Loss, 2/3 IP, 9 ER, 11 H, 1 BB, 0 K Thursday against Kansas City Royals
1 career start vs. ATL: No-decision, 4.2 IP, 4 ER, 7 H, 2 BB, 7 K

Braves at Astros odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 2:25 p.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Braves -120 (bet $120 to win $100) | Astros +100 (bet $100 to win $100)
Run line (RL)/Against the spread (ATS): Braves -1.5 (+135) | Astros +1.5 (-160)
Over/Under (O/U): 9.5 (O: -115 | U: -105)

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Braves at Astros picks and predictions

Prediction

Braves 6, Astros 4

Moneyline

The Braves are rollin’, and the Astros are not. Nor is their pitcher on the bump Tuesday, who has allowed 14 ER in 3 2/3 IP over his last 2 starts. Brown has a lot of ability, but something clearly isn’t clicking right now. For the bargain of a price, take the BRAVES -120.

Run line/Against the spread

I’m passing on the spread and going back to the well with Altuve. He’s 3 for 8 (.375) lifetime against Lopez and has 17 total bases the last 3 games.

Take JOSE ALTUVE OVER 1.5 TOTAL BASES (+100).

Over/Under

The bats were quiet until the 9th Monday, but I think this one sneaks over. Lopez isn’t as good as his early numbers suggest. Likewise for Brown, who is better than his numbers suggest. Houston is 6-4 O/U over the last 10, and Atlanta is 7-3.

LEAN OVER 9.5 (-115).

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Atlanta Braves at Houston Astros odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Monday’s Atlanta Braves at Houston Astros odds and lines, with MLB expert picks, predictions and best bets.

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The Atlanta Braves (9-5) take on the Houston Astros (6-11) Monday in the opener of a 3-game set at Minute Maid Park at 8:10 p.m. ET (MLB Network). Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Braves vs. Astros odds and make our expert MLB picks and predictions for the best bets.

Season series: First meeting; Astros won 3-0 last year

The Braves took 2 of 3 from the flailing Miami Marlins over the weekend, capping it off with a 9-7 win Sunday. DH Marcell Ozuna continues to crush the ball, hitting .373 (5th in MLB), with 7 HR (1st) and 21 RBI (1st). This is a team that is going to have to rely on its tied-for-MLB-best 6.5 R/game after losing stud RHP Spencer Strider (elbow) for the season.

The Astros have stumbled out of the gates, but they took 2 of 3 from the World Series champion Texas Rangers over the weekend. They won 8-5 Sunday and scored 8+ runs in all 3 games. 2B Jose Altuve leads the way with a .382 BA, 5 HR, 7 RBI and 14 R on the young season.

Braves at Astros projected starters

RHP Darius Vines vs. RHP Spencer Arrighetti

Vines makes his 1st start and 3rd start of his career.

0-0 with a 3.75 ERA, 0.83 WHIP and 11 K in 12 IP in 2 GS at Gwinnett (AAA)
Utilizes a 4-seamer (only 90 mph), cutter, changeup and slider
Has never faced Houston before
Was 1-0 with a 3.98 ERA, 1.08 WHIP, 3.1 BB/9 and 6.2 K/9 in 5 games, 2 starts, over 20 1/3 IP in 2023

Arrighetti allowed 7 ER on 7 H and 3 BB and struck out 3 over 3 IP in his MLB debut loss to the Kansas City Royals Wednesday.

Went 9-7 with a 4.40 ERA in 28 games, 21 GS, between Double-A and Triple-A last year
Utilizes a 4-seamer (94.8 mph), cutter, sweeper, curveball, slider and changeup
Has never faced Atlanta

Braves at Astros odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 1:31 p.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Braves -115 (bet $115 to win $100) | Astros -105 (bet $105 to win $100)
Run line (RL)/Against the spread (ATS): Braves -1.5 (+135) | Astros +1.5 (-165)
Over/Under (O/U): 10.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

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Braves at Astros picks and predictions

Prediction

Astros 8, Braves 6

Moneyline

I look for Houston to tee off on Vines’ 90-mph heater. The only question is can Arrighetti keep the Astros in the game? The Braves are 23rd in MLB with a 4.90 team ERA, and they have allowed 6.5 R/game over the last 8 games. Meanwhile, the Astros’ bats have awakened.

Take the ASTROS -115.

Run line/Against the spread

I’m zoning in on JOSE ALTUVE OVER 1.5 TOTAL BASES (+115), as it looks mispriced. Altuve had 2+ total bases in 4 of 5 games and had 14 in the last 2 games.

BetMGM has offered some users a Bet Insurance Token for any bet -300 or longer. This is the perfect way to utilize it.

Over/Under

Both teams are 7-3 O/U over the last 10, and this figures to continue the trend. There is a 13.9-mph wind blowing out to right-center, and we have 2 unknowns on the bump.

Take the OVER 10.5 (-110).

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Houston Astros at Kansas City Royals odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Thursday’s Houston Astros at Kansas City Royals odds and lines, with MLB expert picks, predictions and best bets.

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The Houston Astros (4-9) visit the Kansas City Royals (8-4) for the finale of a 3-game series Thursday afternoon. First pitch from Kauffman Stadium is scheduled for 2:10 p.m. ET. Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Astros vs. Royals odds and make our expert MLB picks and predictions for the best bets.

Season series: Royals lead 2-0

The Astros fell 11-2 against the Royals Wednesday with RHP Spencer Arrighetti picking up the loss. Both Astros runs came in the 4th inning off RBI doubles from C Yainer Diaz and 1B Jose Abreu. Houston has now lost 4 of its last 6 road games.

RHP Seth Lugo picked up the win for Kansas City. The Royals got the scoring started with a 7-run 3rd inning, and 1B Vinnie Pasquantino had 5 RBIs and 2 runs in the game with a homer. Kansas City is seeking its 6th win in a row and back-to-back series sweeps.

Astros at Royals projected starters

RHP Hunter Brown vs. RHP Brady Singer

Brown (0-1, 6.43 ERA) makes his 3rd start. He has a 2.57 WHIP, 7.71 BB/9 and 10.29 K/9 in 7 innings.

Last start: Loss, 3 IP, 5 ER, 8 H, 4 BB, 3 K in 10-2 loss at Texas Rangers Friday
Astros are 0-2 in his starts this season; he hasn’t pitched past the 4th inning in either outing

Singer (1-0, 0.68 ERA) makes his 3rd start. He has a 0.53 WHIP, 2.81 BB/9 and 9.45 K/9 in 13 1/3 innings.

Last start: No-decision, 6 1/3 IP, 1 ER, 2 H, 1 BB, 4 K in 2-1 home win vs. Chicago White Sox Friday
Royals are 2-0 in his starts this season; he hasn’t pitched past the 6th inning in either outing and has allowed 5 total hits

Astros at Royals odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 10:05 a.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Astros -135 (bet $135 to win $100) | Royals +115 (bet $100 to win $115)
Run line (RL)/Against the spread (ATS): Astros -1.5 (+125) | Royals +1.5 (-150)
Over/Under (O/U): 9 (O: -105 | U: -115)

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Astros at Royals picks and predictions

Prediction

Royals 5, Astros 2

Moneyline

BET ROYALS (+115).

Kansas City is 8-2 in its last 10 games, including 6-0 in its last 6, all at home. It has scored a combined 15 runs in its 1st 2 games against the Astros. It has outscored opponents 35-10 during its 6-game win streak.

The Astros have lost 4 of their last 6, all on the road, and have been outscored 38-27 during that span.

With Singer taking the mound, expect a Royals win.

Run line/Against the spread

PASS.

The profit is better on the Royals to win outright.

Over/Under

BET UNDER 9 (-115).

With Singer on the mound, giving up just 5 combined hits in his 2 starts, expect the Astros to struggle getting runs on the board.

Even though the Royals have had hot bats recently, scoring 20 runs in their last 3 games, they have given up just 10 runs total in their last 6, and as a result, they have hit the Under in 4 of their last 5 games.

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Houston Astros at Texas Rangers odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Houston Astros at Texas Rangers odds and lines, with MLB expert picks, predictions and best bets.

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The Houston Astros (3-7) hope to split their 4-game series with the Texas Rangers (6-3) Monday night. First pitch from Globe Life Field is scheduled for 8:05 p.m. ET. Let’s analyze FanDuel Sportsbook’s lines around the Astros vs. Rangers odds and make our expert MLB picks and predictions for the best bets.

Season series: Rangers lead 2-1

The Astros were victorious over the Rangers 3-1 on Sunday Night Baseball, cashing as short (-104) underdogs. RHP Ronel Blanco earned the win in historic fashion. According to Elias Sports Bureau, Blanco became the 1st pitcher since 1961 to start a season with 44 outs before his 1st hit allowed. DH Yordan Alvarez was the main driver of the offense, clubbing a 3-run home run in the 3rd inning, his 3rd of the season.

The loss for Texas snapped a 4-game winning streak over Houston dating back to last season’s ALCS. RF Adolis Garcia, who leads the Rangers in HRs (4) and RBIs (11), has at least 1 hit in every game played so far except a March 31 loss vs. the Chicago Cubs.

Astros at Rangers projected starters

LHP Framber Valdez vs. LHP Andrew Heaney

Valdez (0-0, 2.19 ERA) makes his 3rd start. He has a 1.38 WHIP, 4.38 BB/9 and 7.30 K/9 in 12 1/3 innings.

Led AL in ground ball percentage (54.2%) in 2023; he has generated a 71.9 GB% in 2 starts this season with a league-leading 5 double play groundouts
Career vs. Texas: 7-5, 2.90 ERA (83 2/3 IP, 27 ER — 5 HR), 36 BB, 89 K in 13 starts

Heaney (0-1, 1.93 ERA) makes his 2nd start. He allowed 3 R (1 ER) on 4 H and 0 BB with 7 K in 4 2/3 IP in his debut at the Tampa Bay Rays Tuesday.

Generated an impressive 30% swinging strike percentage in Tuesday’s loss
Career vs. Houston: 4-4, 3.35 ERA (80 2/3 IP, 30 ER — 8 HR), 26 BB, 80 K in 15 starts

Astros at Rangers odds

Provided by FanDuel Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 1 p.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Astros -142 (bet $142 to win $100) | Rangers +120 (bet $100 to win $120)
Run line (RL)/Against the spread (ATS): Astros -1.5 (+116) | Rangers +1.5 (-140)
Over/Under (O/U): 9 (O: -118 | U: -104)

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Astros at Rangers picks and predictions

Prediction

Rangers 4, Astros 3

Moneyline

BET RANGERS (+120).

It feels a bit nerve-wracking to back Heaney as a dog over Valdez, but the Rangers’ offense is better, as they enter the week tied with the Cubs for the best team on-base percentage (.363) in the league.

Expect Garcia and SS Corey Seager, who has 3 hits in as many games this series, to deliver for the Rangers vs. an Astros bullpen that sports a 6.89 team ERA, 3rd-worst thus far in all of MLB.

Run line/Against the spread

PASS.

I would rather take the plus money with Texas outright than lay $1.40 on the run line.

Over/Under

BET UNDER 9 (-104).

The Under has come through in 7 of the last 9 games between these clubs, and the Rangers are 1 of only 3 teams that have yet to hit a HR vs. left-handed pitching.

The Astros have not been much better vs. lefties, as they are 1 of 8 teams entering Monday with a sub-.200 batting average (.198) vs. LHP.

If Heaney can avoid tough-luck moments, both of these starters should be able to pitch effectively; so play on a juicy FIRST HALF TOTAL RUNS UNDER 5.5 (-140) can certainly be considered as well.

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