We are continuing the week in Major League Baseball with a 13-game slate on Thursday. It is headlined in part by this showdown between the Los Angeles Angels and Houston Astros, being shown on ESPN+ starting at 8:07 pm ET. Here is our same game parlay, and also be sure to check out all of our MLB previews.
Part of the value in same game parlays, of course, is that all of its components can be correlated if you so choose. That is some of the plan here, as Framber Valdez striking out batters left and right would obviously work well with a big win by Houston. At the same time, plays that aren't correlated drive up the overall payout of the parlay. That is the case with backing L.A.'s Taylor Ward to get a hit, but even if he does there is no reason why the Astros can't roll. Let's break down each of the three legs one by one.
Houston Astros -2.5 alternate run line (+142) over LA Angels
Houston is 8-4 against Los Angeles this season, including 4-1 already in July. In those 12 total games, the Astros have outscored the Angels 58-42. Houston won a three-game series earlier this month by a combined score of 21-4. In addition to better head-to-head numbers this season, Houston enters this game in far better form and with a more reliable starting pitcher. In just over a month since June 12, the Astros are 21-7 – including 9-3 in July. The Angels are 2-9 in July and have won only two series out of their last 15 dating back to May 22. Nothing about this Valdez vs Reid Detmers matchup suggests the tide will turn on Thursday. Look for the 'Stros to win by multiple runs.
Be sure to check out our full game preview for Houston Astros vs Los Angeles Angels