Two of the American League's 2022 playoff teams are colliding for the first time this season. The Houston Astros (36-27) are in Ohio to face the Cleveland Guardians (29-33) in a battle of second-place teams. Last year, the Astros won the season series 4-3. Friday night was the first meeting of 2023, with this Saturday clash marking the second. Cleveland's Progressive Field is hosting the series, and the first pitch is scheduled for 6:10 p.m. EDT. Let's see what's in store.
In a season defined by injuries offensively, losing Yordan Alvarez may be rock bottom injury-wise for this Astros team. Alvarez is such a good hitter that he finished third in MVP voting last season and was another strong contender this year although he's primarily a DH. Houston entered this series 14th in runs per game, with a low walk rate (25th in MLB) and OBP (21st). Losing Alvarez in the heart of the order strips protection from the rest of the lineup. This Houston team, which entered this series on a three-game losing streak thanks to little offense, hasn't had a full-strength batting order yet. It's better that this happens now than in October, but they have to get there first.
Houston's pitching is so stellar that they can drag the team into the postseason even with minimal run support. No MLB team has a lower ERA than the Astros this season. It begins with the starts, and J.P. France's num ber is getting called for this game. France made his big-league debut in May, so this will be the fourth road start of his young career. So far, he's been superb, with only three runs allowed (two earned) through 17.1 away game innings. If he falters in this one, the Astros can just bring in their bullpen which is fourth in ERA and third in FIP compared to all reliever groups.
BAM! Scott Steehn found a great opportunity to jumpstart your bankroll and he's sharing the secret with you. Click here to find out more!