Astros vs Athletics predictions
Astros fans have plenty to be excited about heading into this matchup. With Lance McCullers Jr. set to take the mound, he’s looked locked in lately and should put together another solid outing—expect him to go deep into the game and rack up at least five strikeouts. Offensively, you can’t overlook the hot bat of Jeremy Pena, who’s been flirting with getting on base almost every other at-bat and seems primed to pick up a couple of hits and maybe even cross the plate once or twice. Jose Altuve is another name to watch; he could provide a spark at the top of the lineup with his combination of contact and speed, likely chipping in a hit or two himself and causing problems for the Athletics’ defense.
Shifting over to the Athletics, there’s intrigue around their young lineup trying to break through against Houston’s pitching. Jacob Wilson has emerged as a legit threat, and it wouldn’t be surprising to see him notch another multi-hit performance considering how well he’s swinging the bat. Brent Rooker, with his power, is always a candidate to leave the yard, and with Tyler Soderstrom driving in runs, Sacramento has the pieces to put numbers on the board if things break their way. Mitch Spence will need to be sharp on the mound, and if he can keep the Astros in check early, that could open the door for a close battle.
Taking everything into account, this one looks like it tilts in Houston’s favor. The Astros are coming in hot with a five-game win streak and just seem to have too much firepower, both at the plate and on the mound, for an inconsistent Athletics squad. Unless Oakland’s offense finds another gear and their pitching surprises, Houston should be able to extend their win streak and keep their spot atop the AL West secure. What’s your take—will the Athletics pull off the upset, or are the Astros just too strong right now?
