- When: Wednesday, Oct 18 at 8:03 PM ET
- Who: Houston Astros at Texas Rangers
- Starting Pitchers: Cristian Javier and Max Scherzer
- Where: Globe Life Field in Arlington, TX
Put your money where the underdog is, folks; the Houston Astros are ready to bring the heat and turn the tide in this ALCS face-off against the Texas Rangers.
Before continuing, please check out our MLB Postseason Betting Guide, which will help you prepare for any MLB props you may be interested in.
The Texas Rangers have been bulldozing their way through the playoffs like a kid with a sugar rush tearing through a candy store.
But here's a hot take: the Houston Astros are about to toss a wrench in their sugar-laden party. Why? Well, hear me out.
Game Preview
First off, let's get this straight - the Rangers aren't invincible. As much as we love a good Cinderella story, no team can keep up a winning streak forever.
History is filled with examples of teams that started strong only to crash and burn later.
| Money Line |  |  |  |
|---|---|---|---|
| Astros | +117 | +115 | +115 |
| Rangers | -131 | -125 | -125 |
The Rangers might've taken a comfortable 2-0 series lead, but remember the Astros' slugfest at Globe Life Field?
Those were not just victories, they were statements. The Astros know what it takes to tame the Rangers and are ready to relive those glory moments.
Nate's nasty nine. #GoAndTakeIt pic.twitter.com/gFLoYPWnOS
— Texas Rangers (@Rangers) October 17, 2023
I really like the Astros in this spot and would absolutely recommend betting on them to win this game at plus-money odds.
Then, there's the Max Scherzer factor. He's been warming the bench since Sept. 12 due to a teres major muscle strain near his right shoulder.
But now, he's back and ready to let it rip. He might be a little rusty after the layoff, but remember, this is a three-time Cy Young winner we're talking about.
If anyone can shake off the cobwebs and deliver a commanding performance, it's Scherzer.
I can understand why the Rangers are favored and -125 is a very fair price on the moneyline.
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Total Runs
Let's take a look at the total runs market in this matchup.
| Total Runs | | | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Over 9 Runs | -110 | -115 | -115 |
| Under 9 Runs | -110 | -105 | -105 |
The Astros are also banking on a few key players to step up their game. Kyle Tucker and several other hitters need to unlock their potential and get on the scoreboard.
If they fire on all cylinders, the Astros could hit the Rangers with a barrage of runs that could turn the tide in their favor.
Yordan Alvarez, in particular, needs to bring his A-game. If he can replicate his past heroics, the Astros could have a real shot at pulling off an upset.
Cristian Javier will start Game 3 of the ALCS. pic.twitter.com/i0zX83am6i
— Houston Astros (@astros) October 17, 2023
On the flip side, the Rangers might be feeling the pressure. They've had a dream run so far, but the fear of losing their streak could play tricks on them.
This is where the Astros can pounce and take advantage of the situation.
If they can put up a strong defensive front and restrict the Rangers' scoring, they could very well turn this series on its head.
So, there you have it.
The odds might be stacked against our underdogs, but as any seasoned sports enthusiast will tell you, predicting sports outcomes isn't an exact science.
It's a volatile mix of data, luck, and momentum. And right now, the Astros have the perfect recipe to disrupt the Rangers' party.
So, strap in for what promises to be an exciting face-off, and don't be surprised if the Astros turn the tables and make this series their own. Buckle up, baseball fans - we're in for a wild ride.
This one feels like a low scoring game, where the Astros defense and pitching helps them get back into the series.
Check our top sportsbook reviews for the best odds on your favorite MLB games before placing your bets. With the World Series fast approaching, it's well worth checking out the future odds for the MLB.
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