Tag: Rangers Astros odds picks prediction spread over/under betting line

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

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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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ALCS Game 7: Texas Rangers at Houston Astros odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Monday’s Texas Rangers at Houston Astros ALCS Game 7 odds and lines, with MLB expert picks, predictions and best bets.

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The Texas Rangers and the Houston Astros play a decisive Game 7 in the American League Championship Series Monday. First pitch from Minute Maid Park is scheduled for 8:03 p.m. ET (FOX). Let’s analyze FanDuel Sportsbook’s lines around the Rangers vs. Astros odds and make our expert MLB picks and predictions for the best bets.

ALCS: Tied 3-3

This ALCS joins the 2019 World Series, which also involved the Astros, as the only time in a best-of-7 series a road team has won the 1st 6 games.

The Texas Rangers won Game 6 Sunday by a 9-2 score, and we had another 9th-inning bad beat. The Rangers produced 5 runs in the final inning, flipping the total (9) from an Under to an Over result. The total has ended up going high in 5 straight contests since Texas won Game 1 by a 2-0 score.

Texas has managed an 8-3 record in the postseason, going 7-0 on the road, all as an underdog. The Over is 3-1 in the past 4 road playoff games for Texas.

Houston is 6-4 in the playoffs, while losing 4 straight at home since a 6-4 victory over the Minnesota Twins at Minute Maid Park in Game 1 of the ALDS. The Over is 4-1 in 5 home games for the defending champs, and 8-2 in 10 postseason games overall.

Rangers at Astros projected starters

RHP Max Scherzer vs. RHP Cristian Javier

Scherzer was 13-6 with a 3.77 ERA across 27 regular-season starts with the Mets and Rangers. He had a 1.12 WHIP, 2.7 BB/9 and 10.3 K/9 in 152 2/3 innings.

  • Last start: Loss, 4 IP, 5 ER, 5 H, 1 BB, 4 K in 8-5 home loss vs. Texas Rangers in Game 3 of the ALCS Wednesday
  • 2023 road splits: 8-4, 4.31 ERA (85 2/3 IP, 41 ER), 21 HR in 15 starts
  • Making his 24th career postseason start and 29th overall appearance

Javier made 31 starts in the regular season, going 10-5 with a 4.56 ERA. He had a 1.27 WHIP, 3.4 BB/9 and 8.8 K/9 over 162 innings.

  • Last start: Win, 5 2/3 IP, 2 ER, 3 H, 1 BB, 3 K in 8-5 road win vs. the Texas Rangers in Game 3 of the ALCS Wednesday
  • 2023 home splits: 5-2, 3.71 ERA (68 IP, 28 ER), 7 HR in 13 starts in the regular season
  • Making his 5th career postseason start and 17th overall appearance\

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Rangers 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): Rangers +108 (bet $100 to win $108) | Astros -126 (bet $126 to win $100)
  • Run line (RL)/Against the spread (ATS): Rangers +1.5 (-188) | Astros -1.5 (+155)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 9.5 (O: -104 | U: -118)

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Rangers at Astros picks and predictions

Prediction

Astros 4, Rangers 3

Moneyline

The ASTROS (-126) get Game 7 on their home field, and the 4rth time has to be a charm.

Houston is facing Scherzer, who looked awfully rusty in his Rangers (+108) postseason debut in Game 3, and he was outdueled by Javier. The Astros have been abysmal at home so far this season, but you have to side with the home side, especially since Scherzer has been a mess on the road in 2023.

Run line/Against the spread

The Rangers +1.5 (-188) will cost you nearly 2 times your potential return if you’d like a little bit of insurance. This should be a very close contest in a decisive Game 7, but this is too much risk for not nearly enough reward.

PASS, and just focus on the moneyline instead.

Over/Under

The UNDER 9.5 (-118) might be the best play on the board.

Yes, the Over has cashed in 5 in a row in this series, with some devastating results for Under bettors late in games. However, this is a Game 7, and even with plenty of experience on the Houston side, there will be nerves. And Scherzer is a veteran who should be much better. If not, he’ll have a very short leash.

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ALCS Game 6: Texas Rangers at Houston Astros odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Sunday’s Texas Rangers at Houston Astros ALCS Game 6 odds and lines, with MLB expert picks, predictions and best bets.

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The Texas Rangers and the Houston Astros play Game 6 of the best-of-7 American League Championship Series Sunday. First pitch from Minute Maid Park is scheduled for 8:03 p.m. ET (FS1). Let’s analyze FanDuel Sportsbook’s lines around the Rangers vs. Astros odds and make our expert MLB picks and predictions for the best bets.

ALCS: Astros lead 3-2

The Astros went to Arlington for the past 3 games, and Houston won them all. Perhaps the most amazing win was Game 5, as the Astros were down 4-2 heading to the top of the 9th inning. Diminutive 2B Jose Altuve swatted a 3-run, go-ahead homer off of RP Jose Leclerc, killing Rangers moneyline bettors and Under (8.5) bettors in one fell swoop.

The Rangers opened this series with 2 straight wins in Houston to seize home-field advantage, but apparently nobody wants that. The Astros won 3 in a row in Arlington, and the home team is 0-5 in this series. The underdog is also 5-for-5 straight up and on the run line. The Over has cashed in 4 straight in the series.

Rangers at Astros projected starters

RHP Nathan Eovaldi vs. LHP Framber Valdez

Eovaldi made 25 starts in the regular season, going 12-5 with a 3.63 ERA. He had a 1.14 WHIP, 2.9 BB/9 and 8.3 K/9 over 144 innings.

  • Last start: Win, 6 IP, 3 ER, 5 H (2 HR), 1 BB, 9 K in 5-4 road win vs. Texas Rangers in Game 2 of the ALCS last Monday
  • 2023 road splits: 6-2, 3.56 ERA (78 1/3 IP, 31 ER), 6 HR in 13 starts
  • Making his 10th career postseason start and 15th overall appearance

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

  • Last start: Loss, 2 2/3 IP, 5 R (4 ER), 7 H, 1 BB, 6 K in 5-4 home loss vs. the Texas Rangers in Game 2 of the ALCS last Monday
  • 2023 home splits: 4-8, 3.35 ERA (102 IP, 38 ER), 7 HR in 16 starts in the regular season
  • Making his 15th career postseason start and 16th overall appearance

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Rangers 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 12:51 a.m. ET.

  • Moneyline (ML): Rangers +108 (bet $100 to win $108) | Astros -126 (bet $126 to win $100)
  • Run line (RL)/Against the spread (ATS): Rangers +1.5 (-194) | Astros -1.5 (+162)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 8.5 (O: -115 | U: -105)

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Rangers at Astros picks and predictions

Prediction

Astros 5, Rangers 3

Moneyline

What a novel idea, but let’s roll with the home side and back the ASTROS (-126) in Game 6, yeah?

The winning ways of the road team just cannot continue, and the Rangers (+108) just have to be emotionally gutted after having a chance to bury the defending champs, who did their best Lazarus imitation. Now, it’s Houston in the driver’s seat, and about to punch its ticket back to the World Series while Texas fans and bettors scratch their collective heads wondering what could’ve been.

Run line/Against the spread

Roll the dice on ASTROS -1.5 (+162), as the favorite grabs a cover on the run line for the 1st time in this series. The underdog has not only covered in all 5 games, but it has won outright in the first 5 games. The favorite will shine through in the closeout game.

Over/Under

The UNDER 8.5 (-105) is the lean, but ever so slightly.

We saw the Over hit in the past 4, including the excruciating result at most shops with Altuve’s tater in the 9th inning in Game 5 to flip the result. Under bettors, if it makes you feel better, you were on the right side then and deserved better.

With the intensity ratcheted to an all-time high in Game 6, we should see runs at more of a premium.

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ALCS Game 2: Texas Rangers at Houston Astros odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Monday’s Texas Rangers at Houston Astros ALCS Game 2 odds and lines, with MLB expert picks, predictions and best bets.

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The Texas Rangers and the Houston Astros play Game 2 of the best-of-7 American League Championship Series Sunday. First pitch from Minute Maid Park is scheduled for 4:37 p.m. ET (FOX/FS1). Let’s analyze FanDuel Sportsbook’s lines around the Rangers vs. Astros odds and make our expert MLB picks and predictions for the best bets.

ALCS: Rangers lead 1-0

The Rangers kept up their winning ways on the road in this postseason. Texas posted a 2-0 win in Game 1 on Sunday evening in a well-pitched game, its 1st appearance in the ALCS round since 2011. The Rangers collected just 6 hits, but one of them was an unexpected solo HR from OF Leody Taveras in the 5th inning off of RHP Justin Verlander.

Texas saw LHP Jordan Montgomery bounce back from a shaky showing in the ALDS against Baltimore, twirling 6 1/3 scoreless IP. The Rangers are now 6-0 in the postseason, including 5-0 on the road.

Houston is in the ALCS for the 7th consecutive season. It managed just 5  hits against the southpaw Montgomery. It was a huge departure from a 3-game sweep in September when Houston overpowered Texas by a 39-10 margin, while belting 16 HR.

Rangers at Astros projected starters

RHP Nathan Eovaldi vs. LHP Framber Valdez

Eovaldi made 25 starts in the regular season, going 12-5 with a 3.63 ERA. He had a 1.14 WHIP, 2.9 BB/9 and 8.3 K/9 over 144 innings.

  • Last start: Win, 7 IP, 1 ER, 5 H, 0 BB, 7 K in 7-1 home win vs. the Baltimore Orioles in Game 3 of the ALDS last Tuesday
  • 2023 road splits: 6-2, 3.56 ERA (78 1/3 IP, 31 ER), 6 HR in 13 starts
  • Making his 9th career postseason start and 14th overall appearance

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

  • Last start: Loss, 4 1/3 IP, 5 ER, 7 H, 3 BB, 5 K in 6-2 home loss vs. the Minnesota Twins in Game 2 of the ALDS
  • 2023 home splits: 4-8, 3.35 ERA (102 IP, 38 ER), 7 HR in 16 starts in the regular season
  • Making his 14th career postseason start and 15th overall appearance

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Rangers 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 6:17 a.m. ET.

  • Moneyline (ML): Rangers +110 (bet $100 to win $110) | Astros -130 (bet $130 to win $100)
  • Run line (RL)/Against the spread (ATS): Rangers +1.5 (-196) | Astros -1.5 (+162)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 8.5 (O: +100 | U: -122)

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Rangers at Astros picks and predictions

Prediction

Rangers 4, Astros 3

Moneyline

The RANGERS (+110) are worth a look as short ‘dogs on the road, where they have been tremendously comfortable in the postseason so far.

Texas is also worth a look because of Valdez, who has actually had a lot more success on the road than he has in his home park this season. In fact, Valdez not only lost Game 2 against the Twins at Minute Maid Park, he has lost 4 straight starts at home, including the ALDS, last beating the Cleveland Guardians at MMP on Aug. 1 in his no-hitter.

Run line/Against the spread

The Rangers +1.5 (-198) will cost you nearly 2 times your potential return, and that’s a little too expensive for a little insurance. And, frankly, the way Texas has played in the postseason so far, you don’t need it.

AVOID, and roll with the visitors on the moneyline instead.

Over/Under

The UNDER 8.5 (-122) is a big number, especially after these Lone Star State rivals combined for just 2 runs in the series opener.

However, the final 4 meetings of the regular season ended up going Over, and the total went high in 6 of the final 7 meetings overall. But the postseason is a different animal. Monday’s game will see a lot more offense than the series opener, but it’ll still come under the total.

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ALCS Game 1: Texas Rangers at Houston Astros odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Sunday’s Texas Rangers at Houston Astros ALCS Game 1 odds and lines, with MLB expert picks, predictions and best bets.

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The Texas Rangers and the Houston Astros play Game 1 of the best-of-7 American League Championship Series Sunday. First pitch from Minute Maid Park is scheduled for 8:16 p.m. ET (FOX). Let’s analyze FanDuel Sportsbook’s lines around the Rangers vs. Astros odds and make our expert MLB picks and predictions for the best bets.

Regular-season series: Astros won 9-4

The Rangers hit the road, and they have been comfortable in such games in these playoffs. Texas has won 4 in a row away from home, sweeping the AL-Wild Card in St. Petersburg against the Tampa Bay Rays, while winning both games at Camden Yards against the Baltimore Orioles in the ALDS. Overall, Texas has won all 5 playoff games to date, including 4 as an underdog.

There has been a lot of noise about time off for higher seeds in these MLB playoffs, but that didn’t seem to bother the Astros. They took care of the Minnesota Twins in 4 games, including a pair of road wins in Games 3 and 4 to close things out. The Over is 3-1 in 4 playoff games for the Astros to-date.

Rangers at Astros projected starters

LHP Jordan Montgomery vs. RHP Justin Verlander

Montgomery made 32 starts in the regular season with the Cardinals and Rangers, going 10-11 with a 3.20 ERA. He had a 1.19 WHIP, 2.3 BB/9 and 7.9 K/9 over 188 2/3 innings.

  • Last start: No-decision, 4 IP, 5 R (4 ER), 9 H, 1 BB, 2 K in 11-8 road win vs. the Baltimore Orioles in Game 2 of the ALDS last Sunday
  • 2023 road splits: 3-6, 2.73 ERA (89 IP, 27 ER), 8 HR in 15 starts
  • Making his 4th career postseason start and 5th overall appearance

Verlander was 13-8 with a 3.22 ERA across 27 regular-season starts with the Mets and Astros. He had a 1.13 WHIP, 2.5 BB/9 and 8.0 K/9 in 162 1/3 innings.

  • Last start: Win, 6 IP, 0 ER, 4 H, 3 BB, 6 K in 6-4 home win vs. the Minnesota Twins in Game 1 of the ALDS
  • 2023 home splits: 6-5, 3.23 ERA (86 1/3 IP, 31 ER), 12 HR in 14 starts in the regular season
  • Making his 36th career postseason start and 37th overall appearance

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Rangers at Astros odds

Provided by FanDuel Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated Saturday at 10:30 a.m. ET.

  • Moneyline (ML): Rangers +120 (bet $100 to win $120) | Astros -142 (bet $142 to win $100)
  • Run line (RL)/Against the spread (ATS): Rangers +1.5 (-182) | Astros -1.5 (+150)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 8.5 (O: -120 | U: -102)

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Rangers at Astros picks and predictions

Prediction

Astros 4, Rangers 3

Moneyline

The ASTROS (-142) are a decent play at home in this series opener, especially behind the experienced Verlander.

The Rangers (+120) have been on an amazing run, winning all 5 playoff games to date, including 4 in a row on the road. However, Houston has been the kryptonite to these super Rangers this season, winning 9 of 13 regular-season meetings. It will be close, though, as Texas is 3-3 in 6 visits to MMP.

Run line/Against the spread

The Rangers +1.5 (-182) are a little too expensive for my liking on the run line, if you want some insurance. My personal limit for a singular wager is -180, and this is just over the threshold.

Texas has been a great story, and I envision a tight, well-pitched game. But the Astros are a better bet on the money line.

AVOID the run line for now.

Over/Under

The UNDER 8.5 (-102) is a strong play in this series opener.

If you’re letting regular-season trends steer the ship, then this looks like a bad play. The Over has cashed in the past 4 meetings between these Lone Star State rivals, while going 4-1 in the past 5 meetings in Houston.

However, Verlander was filthy against the Twins in Game 1, and the Under was 3-1 in his final 4 regular-season starts. As the intensity ratchets up, the runs seem to be fewer and further between when he is on the hill.

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Texas Rangers at Houston Astros odds, picks and predictions

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

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The Texas Rangers (59-41) begin a 3-game series against the Houston Astros (56-44) on Monday at Minute Maid Park. First pitch is scheduled for 8:10 p.m. ET. Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Rangers vs. Astros odds and make our expert MLB picks and predictions for the best bets.

Season series: Astros lead 4-3

The Rangers defeated the Los Angeles Dodgers 8-4 on Sunday to snap a 2-game losing skid. Texas has won 7 of its last 10 games and is 3 games ahead of Houston atop the AL West race.

The Astros secured a 3-2 victory over the Oakland Athletics on Sunday. Houston has a 6-4 record in its last 10 games.

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Rangers at Astros projected starters

RHP Jon Gray vs. RHP Brandon Bielak

Gray (6-5, 3.31 ERA) makes his 19th start. He has a 1.19 WHIP, 3.0 BB/9 and 7.2 K/9 in 103 1/3 innings.

  • Has not had more than 4 K’s in 6 consecutive starts
  • June 30 in 5-3 loss vs. Astros: 6 IP, 7 H, 5 ER, 2 BB, 4 K in 6 IP
  • Had to leave last start vs. Tampa Bay Ray in 5th inning after being hit by line drive

Bielak (5-5, 3.46 ERA) makes his 12th start. He has a 1.40 WHIP, 3.6 BB/9 and 6.9 K/9 in 65 innings.

  • Has given up multiple ER in 4 of his last 6 starts
  • Has walked 3 or more batters in 3 of his last 4 starts

Rangers 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 8:40 a.m. ET.

  • Moneyline (ML): Rangers -110 (bet $110 to win $100) | Astros -110 (bet $110 to win $100)
  • Run line (RL)/Against the spread (ATS): Rangers -1.5 (+145) | Astros +1.5 (-175)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 9 (O: -105 | U: -115)

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Rangers at Astros picks and predictions

Prediction

Rangers 6, Astros 5

Moneyline

With Texas getting back to its winning ways recently, I’ll back the RANGERS (-110) on the road in Monday’s divisional matchup.

Run line/Against the spread

While there is solid value in taking the Rangers to win by multiple runs at the current odds (+145), I’ll PASS on the run line in this contest.

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Over/Under

OVER 9 (-105) is the pick with both of these pitchers lacking in the swing-and-miss department. The Rangers have produced 5-plus runs in 6 of their last 10 games, while the Astros have scored 6-plus runs in 4 of their last 10.

Since the start of June, both teams are top 6 in ISO, top 15 in wOBA, and top 15 in wRC+ against right-handed pitching. The Rangers and Astros both have the 4th and 5th-most home runs in that span against righties.

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Texas Rangers at Houston Astros odds, picks and predictions

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

The Texas Rangers (8-6) and Houston Astros (7-8) finish a 3-game set at Minute Maid Park Sunday. First pitch is at 7:10 p.m. ET (ESPN). Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Rangers vs. Astros odds and make our expert MLB picks and predictions for the best bets.

Season series: Tied 1-1

The Rangers were pummeled 8-2 Saturday as +163 road underdogs. They’ve lost 2 of 3 with they both by at least 6 runs. Texas is 7th in scoring at 5.44 runs per 9 innings, but the pitching has improved with the addition of SP Jacob deGrom. The Rangers staff is 5th in least home runs allowed (12) and 10th in strikeouts (136). They are without SS Corey Seager (hamstring) until mid-May.

Houston has yet to hit its stride offensively without 2B Jose Altuve (thumb), but defensively, it is 5th in ERA (3.65). The Astros are 5-5 over the last 10 and 4-5 at home overall. 2B Mauricio Dubon has played admirably in Altuve’s absence, leading the team with a .356 batting average.

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Rangers at Astros projected starters

LHP Andrew Heaney vs. LHP Framber Valdez

Heaney (1-1, 8.22 ERA) makes his 3rd start this season. He has a 1.70 WHIP, 14.1 K/9 and 4.7 BB/9 in 7 2/3 innings.

  • After rough 1st start (7 ER in 2 2/3 IP), allowed just 1 unearned run in 5 IP with 10 K of 11-2 home win vs. Royals Monday
  • Career vs. Astros: 3-4, 3.54 ERA (61 IP, 24 ER), 1.25 WHIP, 9.4 K/9 in 11 starts, last facing Houston in 2021

Valdez (1-1, 1.89 ERA) makes his 4th start. He has a 1.21 WHIP, 8.5 K/9 and 2.8 BB/9 in 19 innings.

  • Has gone 7 IP with 2 ER in each of his last 2 starts with 14 K total
  • Career vs. Rangers: 6-3, 2.55 ERA (67 IP, 19 ER), 1.15 WHIP, 10.3 K/9 in 10 starts and 3 relief appearances
  • Last season vs. Rangers: 3-1, 1.56 ERA (34 2/3 IP, 6 ER), 1.07 WHIP, 10.1 K/9 in 5 starts

Rangers 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 3:57 p.m. ET.

  • Moneyline (ML): Rangers +165 (bet $100 to win $165) | Astros -200 (bet $200 to win $100)
  • Run line (RL)/Against the spread (ATS): Rangers +1.5 (-120) | Astros -1.5 (+100)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 8 (O: -105 | U: -115)

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Rangers at Astros picks and predictions

Prediction

Astros 3, Rangers 2

Moneyline

With the way Astros have played, there’s no way I’m taking a -200 ML on them against anyone. They’re facing a strikeout pitcher that could beat them Sunday as well.

I just don’t have enough confidence in the Rangers (+165) to take them outright. The Astros are also 10-1 in Valdez’s last 11 starts against teams with a winning record.

PASS.

Run line/Against the spread

BACK TEXAS +1.5 (-120).

I think the Rangers could win this one. Before this weekend, the last 3 games between the clubs were decided by 1 run. This is a budding rivalry that should heat up as the season goes on.

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Over/Under

The forecast calls for the wind to be blowing in at 10.3 mph. The Under is 4-1 in the last 5 meetings in Houston. The Under has hit in 4 of the last 5 between the teams overall. Take that information and add in the talented starters going, and it’s enough for me to go UNDER 8 (-115).

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Texas Rangers at Houston Astros odds, picks and predictions

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

The Texas Rangers (8-5) play the 2nd contest in a 3-game series against the Houston Astros (6-8) Saturday. First pitch at Minute Maid Park is scheduled for 7:10 p.m. ET (MLB Network). Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Rangers vs. Astros odds and make our expert MLB picks and predictions for the best bets.

Season series: Rangers lead 1-0. Astros won the season series 14-5 in 2022.

The Rangers registered a 6-2 victory in the series opener Friday, cashing as a +144 underdog. Texas has won 2 straight on the road, and 4 of the past 5 games overall.

The Astros looked to be piecing things together after a slow start, going 3-1 in the previous 4 games before Friday’s loss. The defending champs are just 3-5 in 8 home games this season.

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Rangers at Astros projected starters

RHP Jon Gray vs. RHP Hunter Brown

Gray (1-1, 3.00 ERA) makes his 3rd start. He has a 1.25 WHIP, 3.8 BB/9 and 8.3 K/9 through 12 IP.

  • Has allowed 3 HR, but 2 have been of the solo variety, and the other a 2-run shot
  • Hasn’t allowed a HR to anyone on the Astros’ current roster in 40 at-bats

Brown (1-0, 3.09 ERA) makes his 3rd start. He has a 1.11 WHIP, 3.9 BB/9 and 9.3 K/9 through 11 2/3 IP.

  • Has yet to allow a home run this season
  • Allowed just 1 unearned run on 2 H and 2 BB with 7 K across 7 IP in a win at the Minnesota Twins Sunday
  • Made his MLB debut against the Rangers on Sept. 25, 2022, allowing just 3 H and 1 BB with 5 K across 6 scoreless IP in a win

Rangers 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 7:14 a.m. ET.

  • Moneyline (ML): Rangers +145 (bet $100 to win $145) | Astros -175 (bet $175 to win $100)
  • Run line (RL)/Against the spread (ATS): Rangers +1.5 (-140) | Astros -1.5 (+115)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 8 (O: -110 | U: -110)

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Rangers at Astros picks and predictions

Prediction

Astros 4, Rangers 3

Moneyline

The ASTROS (-175) haven’t been firing on all cylinders so far this season, but they’re a good play at home against the Rangers.

Houston has won 40 of the previous 57 meetings in this series and is 39-17 in the past 56 at home. Until the Rangers start ticking off wins on the regular, you still have the back the Astros in the Silver Boot Series.

Run line/Against the spread

The RANGERS +1.5 (-140) aren’t a bad play on the run line. Texas picked up the surprising win in Friday’s series opener. Gray has been pitching well, and we should get a close and well-pitched game with Brown on the other side doing well out of the chute this season.

Texas has cashed on the run line in the past 2 times as an underdog, and it is 3-2 overall as a ‘dog on the run line this season.

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Over/Under

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

The Over was on a 5-0 run for the Rangers until Friday’s Under result, which cashed by just a half-run.

The Under has cashed in 2 in a row for the Astros for the first time this season, but the Over is still 9-4 in the past 13 games overall for Houston.

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Texas Rangers at Houston Astros odds, picks and predictions

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

The Texas Rangers (7-5) will begin a 3-game series against the Houston Astros (6-7) on Friday at Minute Maid Park. First pitch is scheduled for 8:10 p.m. ET. Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Rangers vs. Astros odds and make our expert MLB picks and predictions for the best bets.

Season series: First meeting; Astros went 14-5 vs. Rangers in 2022

The Rangers lost 10-1 to the Kansas City Royals on Wednesday to snap a 3-game winning streak. Texas is 1.5 games ahead of Houston in the AL West.

The Astros shut out the Pittsburgh Pirates 7-0 on Wednesday. Houston has won 3 of its last 4 games after starting the season 3-6.

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Rangers at Astros projected starters

LHP Martin Perez vs. RHP Luis Garcia

Perez (1-1, 2.53 ERA) makes his 3rd start. He has a 1.50 WHIP, 2.5 BB/9 and 10.1 K/9 in 10 2/3 IP.

  • Has thrown 90-plus pitches and struck out at least 5 batters in each of his 1st 2 starts
  • Is 9-8 with a 3.23 ERA, 1.26 WHIP, and 5.9 K/9 in 19 career starts against the Astros

Garcia (0-1, 7.00 ERA) makes his 3rd start. He has a 2.00 WHIP, 5.0 BB/9 and 8.0 K/9 in 9 IP.

  • Has allowed 3-plus ER in each of his 1st 2 starts
  • Boasts a 3-0 record with a 2.50 ERA, 1.22 WHIP, and 8.5 K/9 in 3 career starts (5 appearances) against the Rangers

Rangers 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 8:21 a.m. ET.

  • Moneyline (ML): Rangers +140 (bet $100 to win $140) | Astros -165 (bet $165 to win $100)
  • Run line (RL)/Against the spread (ATS): Rangers +1.5 (-145) | Astros -1.5 (+120)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 8.5 (O: -120 | U: +100)

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Rangers at Astros picks and predictions

Prediction

Astros 4, Rangers 3

Moneyline

PASS.

Unless you can get the Astros at -150 odds or better to win, I’d refrain from wagering on the money line in this AL West matchup

Run line/Against the spread

RANGERS +1.5 (-145) is the pick in this game as Perez has gotten off to a solid start this season. Garcia has struggled in his 1st 2 starts, which should help keep this game close despite the Astros being the home team.

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Over/Under

UNDER 8.5 (+100) is the play with the Rangers sitting at 18th in AVG and 24th in OBP. On top of that, Texas is allowing the 7th fewest ER and Houston is allowing the 8th fewest ER this season.

The Under is 9-3 in the last 12 meetings in Houston and 4-1 in the last 5 meetings overall.

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Texas Rangers at Houston Astros odds, picks and predictions

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

The Texas Rangers (59-76) square off against the Houston Astros (87-49) Wednesday to close out a 3-game series at Minute Maid Park with 1st pitch at 8:10 p.m. ET. Let’s analyze Tipico Sportsbook‘s lines around the Rangers vs. Astros odds with MLB picks and predictions.

Season series: Astros lead 13-5

The Rangers have won 3 of their last 5 games, including Tuesday’s matchup with the Astros. Even with the 4-3 victory, Texas is 27 1/2 games behind Houston in the AL West and only ahead of the Oakland Athletics in the division.

The Astros have won 6 of their last 8 games. After the New York Yankees held the best record in the AL for months, Houston now has passed for the best record in the AL. Houston is 10 games ahead of the Seattle Mariners for the division lead.

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Rangers at Astros projected starters

LHP Cole Ragans vs. RHP Cristian Javier

Ragans (0-2, 4.42 ERA) makes his 5th start. He has a 1.53 WHIP, 4.9 BB/9, and 4.4 K/9 in 18 1/3 IP.

  • Has fewer than 3 K in each of his first 4 starts
  • Aug. 11 at Astros: 4 1/3 IP, 6 H, 5 ER, 3 BB, 1 K

Javier (8-9, 3.07 ERA) makes his 21st start. He has a 1.02 WHIP, 3.3 BB/9, and 11.7 K/9 in 120 1/3 IP.

  • Has surrendered at least 1 HR in 9 of his last 11 starts
  • Aug. 31 at Rangers: 5 IP, 4 H, 3 ER, 3 BB, 7 K

Rangers at Astros odds

Provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated Wednesday at 8:27 a.m. ET.

  • Money line (ML): Rangers +225 (bet $100 to win $225) | Astros -290 (bet $290 to win $100)
  • Run line (RL)/Against the spread (ATS): Rangers +1.5 (+105) | Astros -1.5 (-130)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 8.5 (O: +100 | U: -125)

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Rangers at Astros picks and predictions

Prediction

Astros 6, Rangers 3

Money line

I’ll PASS on the money line in this contest, though, I expect the Astros to come away with the win at home. You can only make $100 off of a $290 bet on Houston, so the reward isn’t worth the risk.

Run line/Against the spread

ASTROS -1.5 (-130) is where I’m leaning in this game with Houston facing an inexperienced pitcher. The Astros have won by multiple runs in 5 of their last 6 wins over the Rangers this season.

Over/Under

The Under has hit in each of the last 2 games in this series, but OVER 8.5 RUNS (+100) at plus-odds is enticing. Ragans gave up 5 runs in his last start against the Astros and Javier has allowed multiple runs in back-to-back starts.

The Over is 4-0-1 in Javier’s last 5 home starts vs. a team with a losing record. On top of that, the Astros are 4-0-1 to the Over in their last 5 games where the total is set between 9 and 10.5.

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