MLB Predictions: Can the Astros beat the Red Sox in Boston? 9/28/17
Can the Boston Red Sox take another step toward the AL East title when they host the Houston Astros tonight at 7:10PM ET? Here’s our MLB Predictions for this big contest.
ODDS
According to oddsmakers at Bovada.lv, this game is considered even, as both the Red Sox and the Astros are listed with a money line of -105 to win. The over/under total for the contest is listed at 9 runs. Boston has won two of three meetings with Houston this season.
PITCHING MATCHUP
Tonight’s pitching matchup has Brad Peacock (12-2, 2.98 ERA) on the mound for the Astros to face Eduardo Rodriguez (6-6, 3.91) of the Red Sox. Peacock has allowed two runs or less in his last five starts. He has 159 strikeouts this season with 56 walks and a 1.20 WHIP. Rodriguez is coming off a 7.2-inning scoreless effort against the Reds. He has 148 strikeouts this season with 48 walks and a 1.24 WHIP.
RED SOX
The Red Sox avoided being swept by the Blue Jays at home on Wednesday thanks to a 10-7 win. Boston is now 92-66 overall and 47-30 at home. The Red Sox have a Magic Number of 2 to win the AL East. Boston is putting up 4.89 runs per game while allowing 4.09 per contest. Leading the Sox is Mookie Betts, who has 46 doubles, 23 home runs and 101 RBI. Andrew Benintendi is adding 26 doubles, 20 home runs and 89 RBI.
ASTROS
Houston is coming off a three-game sweep of the Rangers in Texas. The Astros are now 98-60 overall and 50-27 on the road. They still trail the Indians by one game for the best record in the AL. Houston now averages 5.53 runs per game while allowing 4.35 per game. The Astros are being led by MVP candidate Jose Altuve, who has a .347 average with 38 doubles, 24 home runs, 81 RBI and 32 stolen bases. Carlos Correa is adding 24 doubles, 23 home runs and 81 RBI.
MLB PREDICTIONS
Boston can’t be excited about facing the Astros this weekend, as Houston is rolling right now and completely dominant on the mound and at the plate. The Red Sox need wins or Yankees’ losses to capture the division, but neither are a given. Peacock has been getting stronger on the mound, posting a 2.35 ERA in four starts. Rodriguez has been good in September as well, but he is facing the much tougher lineup today. The Houston hitters are stronger than ever and I think they lead the Astros to the win.
MLB PREDICTIONS: HOUSTON ASTROS -105