Tag: Minnesota Twins vs. Houston Astros odds predictions pick betting line spread

Minnesota Twins at Houston Astros odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Sunday’s Minnesota Twins at Houston Astros odds and lines, with MLB expert picks, predictions and best bets.

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The Houston Astros (26-33) welcome the Minnesota Twins (32-26) to Minute Maid Park Sunday. First pitch in the 3-game series finale is set for 1:05 p.m. ET.  Let’s analyze FanDuel Sportsbook’s lines around the Twins vs. Astros odds and make our expert MLB picks and predictions for the best bets.

Season series: Tied 1-1

The Twins opened the series with a 6-1 victory over the Astros then lost 5-2 Saturday, closing as an underdog in each.

Minnesota has won 4 of its last 6 games, beating the Kansas City Royals in 3 of 4 in the series prior. Minnesota is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games against the spread (ATS) and is 26-32 on the season. The Twins aren16-13 straight up on the road.

The Astros, who are 15-16 at home, sit 3rd in the AL West and have struggled to find much consistency, scoring just 1 or 2 runs in 4 of their last 6 games. They are 2-4 in those games. Houston is 26-32 ATS as well.

Twins at Astros projected starters

RHP Simeon Woods Richardson vs. RHP Hunter Brown

Woods Richardson (2-0, 2.70 ERA) makes his 9th start. He has a 1.10 WHIP, 2.0 BB/9 and 6.8 K/9 in 40 IP.

  • Last start: Win, 5 IP, 2 ER, 3 H, 2 BB, 4 K in a 4-2 home win over the Kansas City Royals Tuesday
  • 2024 road splits: 1-0, 3.00 ERA (24 IP, 8 ER), 24 H, 2 HR, 5 BB, 12 K in 5 starts
  • Has never faced the Astros

Brown (1-5, 6.39 ERA) makes his 11th start. He has a 1.64 WHIP, 4.4 BB/9 and 9.7 K/9 in 49 1/3 IP.

  • Last start: No-decision, 6 IP, 1 ER, 4 H, 0 BB, 9 K in a 4-2 road loss to the Seattle Mariners Tuesday
  • 2024 home splits: 1-2, 4.70 ERA (30 2/3 IP, 16 ER), 25 H, 6 HR, 17 BB, 28 K in 6 starts
  • Career vs. Twins: 1-1, 3.86 ERA (11 2/3 IP, 5 ER), 1.03 WHIP, 11.6 K/9 in 2 starts

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Twins at Astros odds

Provided by FanDuel Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 7:38 a.m. ET.

  • Moneyline (ML): Twins +116 (bet $100 to win $116) | Astros -134 (bet $134 to win $100)
  • Run line (RL)/Against the spread (ATS): Twins +1.5 (-182) | Astros -1.5 (+150)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 8.5 (O: -120 | U: -102)

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Twins at Astros picks and predictions

Prediction

Twins 4, Astros 3

Moneyline

BET TWINS (+116).

The Twins have been on a roll as of late, winning 4 of their last 6 games as  their offense has been more dependable, scoring at least 4 runs in all 4 victories. They will also have a pitching advantage as Brown has struggled for most of the season.

With Houston sub-.500 at home and having scored 5 or fewer runs in 8 straight and 2 or fewer in 5 of those, it might not find the bats to come out on top in 2 in a row. Back the plus-money TWINS (+116).

Run line/Against the spread

PASS.

There’s just no great value here. The Astros -1.5 (+150) are too risky as a run-line favorite, and the Twins +1.5 (-188) are too expensive as a run-line underdog. Avoid this play.

Over/Under

BET UNDER 8.5 (-102).

Both teams have been heavily leaning toward the Under. The Twins have gone Under in 4 of their last 5 games and are 2-7-1 O/U in their last 10. They are 25-31-2 O/U on the season and have gone Under in 3 straight Woods Richardson starts.

The Astros have gone Under in 8 straight games and are 20-35-3 O/U on the season. They have gone Under in 2 straight starts by Brown and have allowed more than 4 runs in just 1 of their last 10 games.

Back UNDER 8.5 (-102).

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Minnesota Twins at Houston Astros odds, picks and predictions

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

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The Minnesota Twins (31-25) and Houston Astros (25-32) open a 3-game set at Minute Maid Park Friday. First pitch is scheduled for 8:10 p.m. ET (MLB Network). Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Twins vs. Astros odds and make our expert MLB picks and predictions for the best bets.

Season series: First meeting; Astros beat Twins 3-1 in 2023 ALDS

The Twins won 7-6 over the Kansas City Royals Thursday as the Over (8.5) hit. Minnesota took 3 of 4 games in the set, cashing as a -157 home favorite in the series finale. C Ryan Jeffers hit 2 HRs for the Twins, who have won 7 of their last 9 games.

Houston avoided a 4-game sweep with a 4-0 win at the Seattle Mariners Thursday as the Under (7.5) cashed for a 6th straight Astros game. RHP Spencer Arrighetti allowed just 2 hits in 6 innings for Houston, which closed as a +118 underdog.

The Twins won last year’s regular-season series 4-2.

Twins at Astros projected starters

RHP Pablo López vs. RHP Ronel Blanco

López (4-5, 5.25 ERA) makes his 12th start. He has a 1.17 WHIP, 1.5 BB/9 and 10.4 K/9 in 60 IP.

  • Last start: Loss, 4 2/3 IP, 6 ER, 7 H, 1 BB, 6 K in 6-2 home setback vs. Texas Rangers Sunday
  • 2024 road stats: 2-2, 6.00 ERA (27 IP, 18 ER), 1.07 WHIP in 5 starts
  • 2023 ALDS vs. Astros: 1-0, 0.00 ERA (7 IP), 6 H, 1 BB, 7 K in 6-2 road win Oct. 8
  • Career vs. Astros (regular season): 0-0, 4.15 ERA (4 1/3 IP, 2 ER), 6 H, 2 BB, 5 K in 1 start, a 7-4 road win June 10, 2022

Blanco (5-0, 1.99 ERA) makes his 10th start. He has a 1.01 WHIP, 3.6 BB/9 and 8.4 K/9 in 54 1/3 IP.

  • Last start: Win, 7 IP, 1 ER, 4 H, 1 BB, 6 K in 5-2 victory at Oakland A’s Sunday
  • 2024 home stats: 1-0, 1.88 ERA (24 IP, 5 ER), 0.92 WHIP in 4 starts
  • Career vs. Twins: 0-0, 36.00 ERA (1 IP, 4 ER), 4 H, 2 BB, 0 K in 1 relief appearance, a 9-6 road loss April 8, 2023

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Twins 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 11:02 a.m. ET.

  • Moneyline (ML): Twins -105 (bet $105 to win $100) | Astros -115 (bet $115 to win $100)
  • Run line (RL)/Against the spread (ATS): Twins -1.5 (+155) | Astros +1.5 (-190)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 8 (O: -110 | U: -110)

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Twins at Astros picks and predictions

Prediction

Astros 4, Twins 3

Moneyline

The ASTROS (-115) have been a huge letdown this season, but they’re 8-1 in Blanco’s starts, and the 1 loss was on the road in extra innings. Blanco has allowed 2 ER or fewer in 8 of his 9 starts this year, while López has given up a total of 13 ER over his last 2 outings (9 2/3 IP).

BET ASTROS (-115).

Run line/Against the spread

This will most likely be a 1-run game, but laying -190 in MLB is a losing proposition long term.

PASS. Bet the ML and/or total instead.

Over/Under

The Under has hit in 6 straight Astros games, and Blanco’s last 3 starts have ended with 7 or fewer total runs scored. However, López has allowed a total of 25 hits over his last 3 starts (16 IP), and if Houston can take advantage, this Under will likely be in trouble.

LEAN UNDER 8 (-110).

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ALDS Game 2: Minnesota Twins at Houston Astros odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Sunday’s Minnesota Twins at Houston Astros Game 2 odds and lines, with MLB expert picks and predictions.

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The Minnesota Twins and Houston Astros play Game 2 of their best-of-5 AL Division series at Minute Maid Park Sunday. First pitch is at 8:03 p.m. ET (FS1). Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Twins vs. Astros odds and make our expert MLB picks and predictions for the best bets.

ALDS: Astros lead 1-0 | Regular-season series: Twins won 4-2

The Astros took Game 1 by a 6-4 count as they won their 10th straight Game 1 of a division series. RHP Justin Verlander won his 10th postseason game with the club to break the franchise record. He pitched 6 shutout innings and struck out 6.

The Twins gave it a run when JV exited after the 6th inning. 3B Jorge Polanco hit a 2-out, 3-run shot and DH Royce Lewis followed with a solo HR as Minnesota cut it 5-4, but the Twins offense ran out of gas. It was their 1st loss this postseason.

They call on their horse, RHP Pablo Lopez, in Game 2 to try to even the series.

Twins at Astros projected starters

RHP Pablo Lopez vs. LHP Framber Valdez

Lopez went 11-8 with a 3.66 ERA in 32 starts this season. He had a 1.16 WHIP, 2.2 BB/9 and 10.9 K/9 in 194 innings.

  • Last start: Win, 5 2/3 IP, 1 ER, 5 H, 2 BB, 3 K in 3-1 Wild Card Game 1 victory against Toronto Blue Jays Tuesday
  • One career start vs. Astros: No-decision, 4 1/3 IP, 2 ER, 6 H, 2 BB, 5 K in Miami Marlins 7-4 road victory June 10, 2022

Valdez went 12-11 with a 3.45 ERA in 31 starts. He had a 1.13 WHIP, 2.6 BB/9 and 9.1 K/9 in 198 innings.

  • Last start: No-decision, 4 IP, 3 ER, 5 H, 5 BB, 7 K in 8-3 road win at Seattle Mariners Sept. 27
  • Career vs. Twins (regular season): 3-1, 2.37 ERA, 1.19 WHIP, 8.0 K/9 in 4 starts

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Twins 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 1:18 p.m. ET.

  • Moneyline (ML): Twins +110 (bet $100 to win $110) | Astros -135 (bet $135 to win $100)
  • Run line (RL)/Against the spread (ATS): Twins +1.5 (-185) | Astros -1.5 (+150)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 7.5 (O: -120 | U: +100)

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Twins at Astros picks and predictions

Prediction

Astros 4, Twins 2

Moneyline

The Astros are the masterclass in just about every category in this matchup. The Twins’ only chance is for Lopez to come and shove for 7 or 8 innings because they simply don’t have the bats to keep up. I look for Minnesota to take 1 in this series, but it won’t be here.

TAKE ASTROS (-135) to put the Twins on the brink.

Run line/Against the spread

The Astros covered the RL in Game 1 and have now won 5 games in a row. Nine of the last 10 meetings with these teams have resulted in multiple-run finishes. The carrot is there for me to chase at +150 with a $10 bet profiting $15.

TAKE ASTROS -1.5 (+150) — divvy up 1½ units between this play and the Astros ML wager.

Over/Under

The Over cashed in Game 1 as Houston’s bullpen made it interesting. The Over is 5-4-1 in the last 10 meetings between the clubs. With this pitching matchup, though, I see a low-scoring affair. The O/U line was 8 but has since dropped ½ run. Eight is definitely a pretty hefty number with the caliber of arms going.

TAKE UNDER 7.5 (+100) at even-money.

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ALDS Game 1: Minnesota Twins at Houston Astros odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Saturday’s Minnesota Twins at Houston Astros Game 1 odds and lines, with MLB expert picks, predictions and best bets.

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The Minnesota Twins are coming off a 2-0 home sweep of Toronto and will square off against the Houston Astros in a best-of-5 AL Division Series. The two teams will get started Saturday at 4:45 p.m. ET at Minute Maid Park (FS1). Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Twins vs. Astros odds and make our expert MLB picks and predictions for the best bets.

Regular-season series: Twins won 4-2

Minnesota ran away with the AL Central title and finished strong. Including the Wild Card sweep of the Blue Jays, the Twins have won 10 of their last 13 games.

Houston finished the season with 4 straight wins to edge out Texas for the AL West crown. However, the Astros went 4-13 in their last 17 home games and finished with a losing record (39-42) at Minute Maid Park.

Twins at Astros projected starters

RHP Bailey Ober vs. RHP Justin Verlander

Ober went 8-6 with a 3.43 ERA in 26 starts during the season.  He registered a 1.07 WHIP, 1.8 BB/9 and 9.1 K/9 in 144 1/3 innings.

  • Last start: No-decision, 6 2/3 IP, 1 ER, 2 H, 0 BB, 9 K in 3-2 loss at Colorado Rockies Oct. 1
  • Road stats: 5-3, 3.57 ERA (68 IP, 27 ER), 9.9 K/9 in 12 starts
  • Wasn’t on Wild Card roster as Twins would need just 3 starters at most
  • Gets nod in Game 1 against Houston, a team he faced twice in career, allowing 5 ER in 10 IP (2 starts) with 2 no-decisions in 2021

Verlander went 13-8 with a 3.22 ERA across 27 starts during the regular season for the New York Mets (16 starts) and Astros. He recorded a 1.13 WHIP, 2.5 BB/9 and 8.0 K/9 through 162 1/3 innings.

  • Last start: Win, 5 IP, 0 ER, 2 H, 3 BB, 5 K in 1-0 victory at Arizona Diamondbacks Sept. 30
  • In 6 starts in Houston this season (5 with Astros, 1 with Mets), registered a 4.97 ERA (38 IP, 21 ER) with an outstanding 36/3 K/BB ratio, but 8 HR allowed
  • Career vs. Twins: 22-10, 2.76 ERA (267 2/3 IP, 82 ER), 1.12 WHIP, 9.0 K/9 in 40 starts — didn’t face them in 2023 but tossed 14 scoreless innings in 2 starts during the 2022 season

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Twins 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 12:56 a.m. ET.

  • Moneyline (ML): Twins +135 (bet $100 to win $135) | Astros -160 (bet $160 to win $100)
  • Run line (RL)/Against the spread (ATS): Twins +1.5 (-155) | Astros -1.5 (+125)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 7.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

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Twins at Astros picks and predictions

Prediction

Twins 5, Astros 4

Moneyline

The Twins are a roll and ended the season with 11 wins in their last 16 road games. Ober has been solid all season and over his final 4 starts, put up a 2.08 ERA (21 2/3 IP, 5 ER) with 26 K’s vs. 3 walks.

Verlander has had another nice year as well, albeit with a drop-off in his whiffs — 144 this season compared to 185 in 2022.

Houston hasn’t been as dominant as usual at home this season, and this looks like a toss-up. Side with the underdog and TAKE MINNESOTA (+135).

Run line/Against the spread

AVOID.

This sets up to be a tight game but there’s not enough value in taking +1.5 runs, or in laying 1.5 runs on either side Play this one straight up and PASS.

Over/Under

Both starting pitchers are strong, but so are the offenses as they each ranked top 6 in wRC+ vs. right-handed pitching this season. Though the Twins scored just 5 runs in their 2-game sweep of Toronto, they scored 50 runs in their final 7 regular-season games (7.1 per game).

Both offenses should do their part in pushing this total just OVER 7.5 (-110).

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Minnesota Twins at Houston Astros odds, picks and predictions

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

The Minnesota Twins (28-27) and Houston Astros (32-22) play the finale of a 3-game set Wednesday at Minute Maid Park. First pitch is at 8:10 p.m. ET. Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Twins vs. Astros odds and make our expert MLB picks and predictions for the best bets.

Season series: Twins lead 3-2

The Twins were overmatched Tuesday as the Astros evened the series at 1 with a 5-1 victory. RHP Joe Ryan allowed 5 ER over 4 innings, and that was too much to overcome for the favored Twins. Minnesota is just 4-6 and 9-11 over the last 10 and 20 games, respectively.

Houston 3B Alex Bregman had 2 hits, including a home run, and 2 RBIs Tuesday to lead the offense. The Astros scored all 5 runs in the 2nd and 3rd innings and did not tack on. Houston is 7-3 over the last 10 and 15-5 over the last 20 games as it’s starting to get healthy and fire on all cylinders.

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Twins at Astros projected starters

RHP Louie Varland vs. RHP Hunter Brown

Varland (2-1, 4.24 ERA) makes his 7th start. He has a 1.24 WHIP, 1.9 BB/9 and 9.0 K/9 in 34 innings.

  • Last start: Loss, 6 IP, 3 ER, 7 H, 0 BB, 3 K, vs. Toronto Blue Jays Friday
  • 1-0 with a 5.17 ERA, 1.47 WHIP in 3 road starts this year vs. 1-1 with a 3.44 ERA, 1.04 WHIP in 3 home starts
  • First career appearance vs. Houston

Brown (5-1, 3.12 ERA) makes his 11th start. He has a 1.20 WHIP, 2.8 BB/9 and 10.3 K/9 in 57 2/3 innings.

  • Last start: Win, 7 IP, 2 ER, 4 H, 1 BB, 10 K vs. Oakland Athletics Friday
  • 1 career start vs. Minnesota: Win, 7 IP, 0 ER, 2 H, 2 BB, 7 K in a 5-1 road win on April 9

Twins 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 9:18 a.m. ET.

  • Moneyline (ML): Twins +150 (bet $100 to win $150) | Astros -185 (bet $185 to win $100)
  • Run line (RL)/Against the spread (ATS): Twins +1.5 (-135) | Astros -1.5 (+110)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 8 (O: -120 | U: +100)

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Twins at Astros picks and predictions

Prediction

Astros 6, Twins 3

Moneyline

We cashed 2 of the 3 bets here Tuesday, as felt well on track for the 3rd after 5 of the 8-run total were scored in the first 3 frames before the power left the bats. There is a very large market correction here as Houston went from +100 Tuesday to -185 Wednesday.  The Twins are 3-8 in the last 11 meetings vs. Houston and 6-14 in the last 20 in Houston.

We’ll PASS on the moneyline and put together a small parlay. Brown has at least 8 K’s in his last 3 starts, and he struck out the Twins 7 times in his lone start against them. Minnesota has the highest whiff rate in baseball at 10.18 per game. So let’s go with SAME GAME PARLAY: ASTROS ML + BROWN 6+ STRIKEOUTS (-120) at a much more reasonable rate.

Run line/Against the spread

The Twins are 28-27 (14-13 on the road) on the RL, and the Astros are 28-26 (12-15 at home). Six of Houston’s 7 wins over the last 10 games have been by 2 or more runs. Houston has the advantage in the bullpen with the 3rd-best ERA at 3.07 as Minnesota sits in 8th with a 3.59 ERA.

I’ll back the ASTROS -1.5 (+110).

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Over/Under

The wind is blowing out to left-center field at 7 mph on a humid 85-degree day. Houston has scored at least 5 runs in 6 of the last 7 against the Twins and 8 of 10.

These teams have alternated Over and Under the last 6 games against one another. Tuesday went Under, so I’ll LEAN OVER 8 (-120).

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Minnesota Twins at Houston Astros odds, picks and predictions

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

The Minnesota Twins (28-26) and Houston Astros (31-22) meet in the 2nd of a 3-game set Tuesday at Minute Maid Park. First pitch is at 8:10 p.m. ET. Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Twins vs. Astros odds and make our expert MLB picks and predictions for the best bets.

Season series: Twins lead 3-1

The Twins took Monday’s series opener 7-5 in 10 innings. They had a 4-1 lead until Houston went up 5-4 in the 7th inning. Minnesota tied it in the 9th and plated 2 in the 10th to seal the deal. The Twins haven’t been able to gain much traction at 4-6, 9-11 and 14-16 over the last 10, 20 and 30 games, respectively.

Houston is 7-3 over the last 10, but that’s a little deceiving because 6 of those wins were against the futile Oakland Athletics. The Astros are just 6-8 against the AL Central thus far and are a so-so 14-12 at home.

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Twins at Astros projected starters

RHP Joe Ryan vs. RHP Brandon Bielak

Ryan (7-1, 2.21 ERA) makes his 11th start. He has a 0.95 WHIP, 1.5 BB/9 and 10.3 K/9 in 61 innings.

  • Last start: Win, 5 IP, 1 ER, 6 H, 2 BB, 4 K, vs. the San Francisco Giants Wednesday
  • 2 career starts vs. Houston: 1-1, 7.20 ERA, 1.30 WHIP, 13 K in 10 IP; allowed 4 ER in each

Bielak (1-2, 3.55 ERA) makes his 5th start and 6th appearance. He has a 1.54 WHIP, 3.2 BB/9 and 7.8 K/9 in 25 1/3 innings.

  • Last start: Loss, 6 2/3 IP, 4 ER, 5 H, 1 BB, 3 K vs. the Milwaukee Brewers Wednesday
  • Has logged 9 IP at home this year and struck out 15 batters with a 3.00 ERA

Twins 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 9:42 a.m. ET.

  • Moneyline (ML): Twins -120 (bet $120 to win $100) | Astros +100 (bet $100 to win $100)
  • Run line (RL)/Against the spread (ATS): Twins -1.5 (+140) | Astros +1.5 (-165)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 8 (O: -115 | U: -105)

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Twins at Astros picks and predictions

Prediction

Astros 5, Twins 4

Moneyline

I’m not ready to buy into the Twins favored in Houston. Yes, they have played well against the defending champs, but 2B Jose Altuve just got back, and he’s raking at .355 in 8 games. Houston is about to hit its stride.

Ryan has been great thus far, but his worst start this season was against these same Astros. The extra-inning defeat on Monday should leave a sour taste for the ASTROS (+100) to capitalize on. The Twins are 3-7 in the last 10 meetings and 6-13 in the last 19 in Houston.

Run line/Against the spread

The Twins are 28-26 (14-12 on the road) on the RL, and the Astros are 27-26 (11-15 at home). Houston has the advantage in the bullpen with the 5th-best ERA at 3.18 as Minnesota sits in 9th with a 3.67 ERA. It’s a little chalkier than I like to go, but it offsets the even money ML in case an implosion happens again.

Take the ASTROS +1.5 (-165).

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Over/Under

Both teams are 4-6 O/U over the last 10. The Over is 3-2 between them over the last 5. The Over is 3-1-1 in the last 5 meetings in Houston. The Astros have scored at least 5 runs against the Twins in 8 the last 10 meetings. Ryan has allowed half of this total on his own in his 2 starts against them.

I’ll LEAN OVER 8 (-115).

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Minnesota Twins at Houston Astros odds, picks and predictions

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

The Minnesota Twins (27-26) open a 3-game series with the Houston Astros (31-21) Monday at Minute Maid Park. First pitch is scheduled for 4:10 p.m. ET (MLB Network). Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Twins vs. Astros odds and make our expert MLB picks and predictions for the best bets.

Season series: Twins lead 2-1

The Twins took 2 of 3 games from the Astros in a 3-game series at Target Field in Minneapolis from April 7-9. It was a fairly evenly matched series, with both teams totaling 13 runs in the set.

The Twins lost 2 of 3 games against the Toronto Blue Jays over the weekend, and are just 4-8 in the past 12 games with 4 consecutive series losses. Minnesota sits in 1st place in the American League Central Division despite its recent nosedive.

Houston picked up a 3-game series sweep on the road against the Oakland Athletics over the weekend, outscoring the lowly A’s by a 21-6 count. The Astros have picked up victories in 14 of the past 17 outings, including an 8-3 mark in their last 11 games on the road.

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Twins at Astros projected starters

RHP Sonny Gray vs. RHP J.P. France

Gray (4-0, 1.82 ERA) makes his 11th start. He has a 1.20 WHIP, 3.5 BB/9 and 10.9 K/9 in 54 1/3 innings.

  • Last start: No-decision, 5 IP, 2 ER, 6 H, 2 BB, 6 K in a 4-3 home loss vs. the San Francisco Giants Tuesday
  • 2023 Road splits: 1-0, 2.84 ERA (19 IP, 6 ER) with a .250 opponent batting average (OBA) in 4 starts
  • 2023 vs. Houston: No-decision, 7 IP, 1 ER, 4 H, 1 BB, 13 K in a 3-2 extra-inning win on April 7

France (1-1, 3.43 ERA) makes his 5th start. He has a 1.19 WHIP, 2.1 BB/9 and 7.7 K/9 in 21 innings.

  • Last start: Loss, 5 2/3 IP, 2 R (1 ER), 5 H, 1 BB, 8 K in a 6-0 road loss vs. the Milwaukee Brewers Tuesday
  • 2023 Home splits: 0-0, 14.73 ERA (3 2/3 IP, 6 ER – 3 HR) with a .474 opponent batting average (OBA) in 1 start

Twins 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 6:46 a.m. ET.

  • Moneyline (ML): Twins +105 (bet $100 to win $105) | Astros -125 (bet $125 to win $100)
  • Run line (RL)/Against the spread (ATS): Twins +1.5 (-190) | Astros -1.5 (+155)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 8 (O: -110 | U: -110)

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Twins at Astros picks and predictions

Prediction

Astros 4, Twins 3

Moneyline

The ASTROS (-125) are a solid option in the series opener.

Minnesota has managed a dismal 4-11 record in the past 15 games against AL West foes, although it did take 2 of 3 in the first series against Houston. Still, the Twins have dropped 6 straight series openers, while going 2-7 in the past 9 games against a right-handed starting pitcher.

The Twins have managed a 1-4 mark in the past 5 trips to Houston, while going 2-7 in the previous 9 tries overall against the Astros.

Run line/Against the spread

The Twins +1.5 (-190) will cost you nearly 2 times your potential return if you want a run of insurance.

That’s just too risky despite the fact Minnesota is 5-4 in the past 9 games as an underdog on the run line, including 4 outright victories.

AVOID.

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Over/Under

The UNDER 8 (-110) is the lean, although go lightly.

The total has gone low in 6 of the past 8 games for the Twins while going 5-2 in the past 7 games against right-handed starting pitchers. The Under is also 7-3-1 in the past 11 series openers, too.

The Under is 16-5 in the Astro’s past 21 games against a right-handed starting pitcher, while cashing at a 6-2 clip in their past 8 games overall. The Under is also 9-4-1 in the past 14 games at home, too.

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Minnesota Twins at Houston Astros odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Thursday’s Minnesota Twins at Houston Astros odds and lines, with MLB expert picks and predictions.

The Minnesota Twins (62-60) and the Houston Astros (80-45) play the finale of a 3-game set at Minute Maid Park. First pitch is scheduled for 8:10 p.m. ET. Let’s analyze Tipico Sportsbook‘s lines around the Twins vs. Astros odds with MLB picks and predictions.

Season series: Astros lead series 5-0

The Twins are in a 5-game slide and the offense is having some difficulty scoring runs lately. Minnesota has totaled just 11 runs in the last 6 games, or an average of 1.9 runs per contest. Not surprisingly, the Under has hit at a 9-1-2 clip across the past 12 games overall.

The Astros have won all 5 games against the Twins, and look for the 3-game sweep in this series. Houston has scored 4 or more runs in each of the last 4 outings, and it ranks 8th in the majors with 4.59 runs per game.

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Twins at Astros projected starters

RHP Chris Archer vs. RHP Luis Garcia

Archer (2-6, 4.02 ERA) makes his 22nd start. He has a 1.26 WHIP, 4.3 BB/9 and 7.8 K/9 in 87 1/3 IP.

  • Is 0-3 with a 4.24 ERA with 35 K and a .211 opponent batting average in 10 road starts
  • Was knocked around for 5 R (4 ER) with 5 H, 3 BB and 2 K in 3 IP in a May 11 loss against the Astros at Target Field

Garcia (10-8, 4.09 ERA) makes his 23rd start. He has a 1.18 WHIP, 2.9 BB/9 and 9.3 K/9 in 123 1/3 IP.

  • Has 7 of his 10 victories at home, going 7-3 with a 4.88 ERA with 68 K in 62 2/3 IP in 11 starts at Minute Maid Park.
  • Yielded 5 H and 2 BB with 9 K in 5 scoreless IP in a May 12 win at Minnesota

Twins at Astros odds and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 8:09 a.m. ET.

  • Money line (ML): Twins +145 (bet $100 to win $145) | Astros -180 (bet $180 to win $100)
  • Run line (RL)/Against the spread (ATS): Twins +1.5 (-140) | Astros -1.5 (+115)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 8.5 (O: -107 | U: -115)

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Twins at Astros picks and predictions

Prediction

Astros 5, Twins 2

Money line

The ASTROS (-180) are a little on the pricey side, costing nearly 2 times your potential return. This is my personal limit for a standalone money line play, and I’d prefer the run line here. However, since Houston is 5-0 against Minnesota this  season, keep hammering the favorite.

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Run line/Against the spread

The ASTROS -1.5 (+115) are a solid play on the run line. If you like the Astros to complete the season sweep of the Twins +1.5 (-140), you should like Houston to cover. Houston has won every meeting this season by 2 or more runs, including exactly by 2 in each of the first 2 outings in this series.

Over/Under

The UNDER 8.5 (-115) is the play, as Minnesota continues to struggle to get the lumber going lately.

The Under is 3-0-2 in the last 5 road games for the Twins, while going 3-0-1 in the last 4 home games for the Astros against teams with a winning overall record.

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If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW, or try out our USA TODAY Parlay Calculator. Please gamble responsibly.

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Gannett may earn revenue from Tipico for audience referrals to betting services. Tipico has no influence over nor are any such revenues in any way dependent on or linked to the newsrooms or news coverage. See Tipico.com for Terms and Conditions. 21+ only. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (NJ), 1-800-522-4700 (CO).

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Minnesota Twins at Houston Astros odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Wednesday’s Minnesota Twins at Houston Astros odds and lines, with MLB expert picks and predictions.

The Minnesota Twins (62-59) try to tame the Houston Astros (79-45) Wednesday in the 2nd game of a 3-game set at Minute Maid Park. First pitch is set for 8:10 p.m. ET. Let’s analyze Tipico Sportsbook‘s lines around the Twins vs. Astros odds with MLB picks and predictions.

Season series: Astros lead 4-0.

The Twins fell to the Astros 4-2 Tuesday night thanks in part to RHP Justin Verlander‘s 10 K’s over 6 no-hit innings. They are tanking at the worst time, falling 3 games behind the Cleveland Guardians in the AL Central. Minnesota is 4-6 in its last 10 and 13-17 in the last 30. The Twins are 27-31 away from the Twin Cities and are up against a buzzsaw in Houston.

The Astros are attempting to join the Los Angeles Dodgers in the 80-win club. They are 40-18 at home, 21-8 against the AL Central and 50-34 against right-handed starters. Houston has won all 4 games in this series, and it hasn’t been close with a combined score of 25-5.

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Twins at Astros projected starters

RHP Dylan Bundy vs. LHP Framber Valdez

Bundy (7-4, 4.60 ERA) makes his 22nd start. He has a 1.23 WHIP, 1.9 BB/9 and 6.7 K/9 in 103 2/3 IP.

  • Has a 1.88 ERA and a 0.84 WHIP in his last 3 starts
  • Was solid in 2 starts against Houston last year: 12 IP, 4 ER, 7 H, 3 BB and 16 K

Valdez (11-5, 2.72 ERA) makes his 24th start. He has a 1.14 WHIP, 3.1 BB/9 and 8.1 K/9 in 149 IP.

  • Has a 2.81 ERA in his last 7 starts
  • Mixed results against Minnesota in 2 starts last year: 13 2/3 IP, 11 H, 5 ER, 6 BB, 9 K

Twins at Astros odds and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 12:37 p.m. ET.

  • Money line (ML): Twins +200 (bet $100 to win $200) | Astros -250 (bet $250 to win $100)
  • Run line (RL)/Against the spread (ATS): Twins +1.5 (-115) | Astros -1.5 (-105)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 7.5 (O: -115 | U: -107)

Exclusive USA TODAY Network offer: Deposit $10 or more, get $200 in instant bet credits at Tipico Sportsbook! New customer offer in CO and NJ. 21+, see Tipico.com for Terms and Conditions. Place your legal, online sports bets at Tipico. Let’s make this interesting. Bet now!

Twins at Astros picks and predictions

Prediction

Twins 4, Astros 3

Money line

This seems like a tall order, but the Astros are just 6-4 and 12-8 over the last 10 and 20 games, respectively. Bundy had their number last year and has been dealing of late. Minnesota showed fight Tuesday after Verlander left the game by scoring 2 runs in the 9th inning when they could have just packed it in. They carry that momentum over into Wednesday. Take the TWINS (+200) for the upset.

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Run line/Against the spread

I don’t like the run line Wednesday because if I am wrong, and the Twins don’t get it done, then the Astros have likely cruised. Instead, let’s look for Minnesota to build off their 2-run 9th inning and take TWINS OVER 2.5 TOTAL RUNS (-130).

Over/Under

I was actually planning to pass on this until I saw the data. The Under is 4-1-1 in the last 6 meetings in Houston and 9-3-1 in the last 13 meetings overall. The Under has hit in 6 straight for Minnesota. LEAN UNDER 7.5 (-107).

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Gannett may earn revenue from Tipico for audience referrals to betting services. Tipico has no influence over nor are any such revenues in any way dependent on or linked to the newsrooms or news coverage. See Tipico.com for Terms and Conditions. 21+ only. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (NJ), 1-800-522-4700 (CO).

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Minnesota Twins at Houston Astros odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Tuesday’s Minnesota Twins at Houston Astros odds and lines, with MLB expert picks and predictions.

The Minnesota Twins (62-58) and the Houston Astros (78-45) open a 3-game set at Minute Maid Park Tuesday. First pitch is scheduled for 8:10 p.m. ET. Let’s analyze Tipico Sportsbook‘s lines around the Twins vs. Astros odds with MLB picks and predictions.

Season series: Astros lead series 3-0

The Twins won the series opener of a 4-game set against the Texas Rangers, and then they proceeded to drop 3 consecutive games. Minnesota has had difficulty plating runs, totaling just 10 runs in the past 5 outings.

The Astros salvaged the finale of a 3-game interleague series in Atlanta, winning 5-4 Sunday after losing the first 2 contests. Houston has managed a 3-4 mark across the past 7 games overall.

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Twins at Astros projected starters

RHP Aaron Sanchez vs. RHP Justin Verlander

Sanchez (3-3, 7.68 ERA) makes his 9th start. He has a 1.68 WHIP, 2.5 BB/9 and 5.9 K/9 in 36 1/3 IP.

  • Allowed 2 ER, 4 H and 2 BB with 8 K across 5 IP in his team debut against the Detroit Tigers Monday after being acquired from the Washington Nationals.
  • Made a relief appearance against the Astros as a member of the Nats last season, allowing 1 ER and 3 H across 2 IP July 30, 2021.

Verlander (15-3, 1.93 ERA) makes his 23rd start. He has a 0.88 WHIP, 1.6 BB/9 and 8.7 K/9 in 143 IP.

  • Is 7-1 with a 2.18 ERA with just 4 HR allowed with 66 K across 62 IP in 10 home starts.
  • Allowed just 1 H and 2 BB with 5 K across 8 scoreless IP in a win at Minnesota May 10.

Twins at Astros odds and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 7:55 a.m. ET.

  • Money line (ML): Twins +290 (bet $100 to win $290) | Astros -380 (bet $380 to win $100)
  • Run line (RL)/Against the spread (ATS): Twins +2.5 (-108) | Astros -2.5 (-112)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 8.5 (O: +100 | U: -125)

Exclusive USA TODAY Network offer: Deposit $10 or more, get $200 in instant bet credits at Tipico Sportsbook! New customer offer in CO and NJ. 21+, see Tipico.com for Terms and Conditions. Place your legal, online sports bets at Tipico. Let’s make this interesting. Bet now!

Twins at Astros picks and predictions

Prediction

Astros 6, Twins 1

Money line

The Astros (-380) will cost you nearly 4 times your potential return, and that’s just not a great long-term betting strategy. You’ll win a handful of those bets, but a loss will eat into your bankroll quickly.

AVOID, and look to the run line instead.

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Run line/Against the spread

The ASTROS -2.5 (-112) is worth a roll of the dice with their Cy Young Award candidate on the bump. The Twins +2.5 (-108) have had difficulty scoring runs lately, and facing Verlander certainly won’t be the elixir to cure their ills.

Over/Under

The UNDER 8.5 (-125) is the play in this series opener.

It has been all about the Under lately for the Twins, hitting in 5 straight games while averaged just 2.0 runs per outing. The Under is also 25-7-4 in the past 36 tries against AL West teams for Minnesota, too.

The Astros have been hammering the Over lately, and facing a very giving pitcher like Sanchez is a bit of a concern. However, the Under is 8-3-1 in the past 12 meetings with the Twins, including 3-1-1 in the past 5 encounters in H-Town.

Bet legally online with a trusted partner: Tipico Sportsbook, Sportsbook Wire’s official sportsbook partner in CO and NJ. Bet now!

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW, or try out our USA TODAY Parlay Calculator. Please gamble responsibly.

Follow Kevin J. Erickson on Twitter. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

Additional MLB coverage:
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BaseballPress.com: Your source for every MLB lineup

Gannett may earn revenue from Tipico for audience referrals to betting services. Tipico has no influence over nor are any such revenues in any way dependent on or linked to the newsrooms or news coverage. See Tipico.com for Terms and Conditions. 21+ only. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (NJ), 1-800-522-4700 (CO).

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