Astros vs Red Sox predictions
When you look at the Houston Astros lineup, it's hard not to notice players who can change the game at any moment, especially with the Astros looking to bounce back on the road. Jose Altuve is in one of those grooves where he seems to be getting on base just about every night—so don’t be surprised if he puts up multiple hits and racks up runs, maybe even leaving the yard for a big fly. Jeremy Pena, even dealing with some hamstring discomfort, has been steady in the box and I’d expect him to collect at least a hit or two while anchoring the middle infield. And then there’s Colton Gordon on the mound; the kid has shown he can keep things under control, likely tossing five solid innings and keeping the Red Sox lineup mostly in check if he stays true to form. If Yainer Diaz keeps seeing the ball well, he could bring some clutch RBIs to the table, giving the Astros the boost they’ll need late in the game.
On the other side, the Boston Red Sox have been electric at Fenway this season—and that energy seems to bleed right into the heart of their batting order. Jarren Duran is always a threat to leg out extra bases or swipe a bag, so you can count on him to spark the offense early. Trevor Story is another key piece; he’s got the pop and clutch gene to deliver a big double or drive in a pair when the pressure ramps up. Walker Buehler gets the start, and while the Astros bats are persistent, Buehler has the stuff to work through tough jams and keep hitters off balance, likely racking up a handful of strikeouts. Keep an eye on Roman Anthony too, who’s quietly found ways to get on base and disrupt things at the bottom of the order.
Given how hot the Red Sox have been at home, and the way their lineup has been collectively clicking, I have to lean in favor of Boston taking this one, especially with the crowd behind them at Fenway. The Astros should keep it close—they always seem to—but Boston’s combination of timely hitting and home field advantage should be just enough to stretch their winning streak one game further. Does home cooking taste any sweeter than in Boston? In a clash like this, it rarely does.