Astros vs. Pirates: Game 2 Predictions, Odds and Picks - July 30, MLB 2024

As predicted, the Houston Astros faced the wrath of Paul Skenes in Game 1 and struggled to score more than three runs. Skenes recorded his 100th strikeout of the season and had himself a good game.

The Pirates smashed five runs and recorded a smooth victory over the Astros. Skenes and the bullpen saved the day, but the remaining two games are not going to be easy as Pittsburgh has been strong in rebounding of late.

Left-handed pitcher Bailey Falter will be sent to the mound to pick up some strikeouts in Game 2. Falter's performance has been limited in the majors, as he holds a 4-7 record with a 4.08 ERA.

The Astros will do their best to retain the top spot in the AL West with Hunter Brown given the nod in Game 2. Brown's stint has been decent but there has been nothing exceptional about his pitching. The pitcher will need the bullpen to help him and hope to restrict the Pirates from scoring in big numbers.

Brown has a 4.00 ERA with a 9-6 record. In 110-plus innings pitched, he has struck out 118 opponents.

Astros vs. Pirates Baseball Betting Odds

Astros	-190	-1.5 (+105)	U 8.5 (-115)
Pirates	+115	+1.5 (-125)	O 8.5 (-105)

Where to watch Astros vs. Pirates?

Game 2 can be seen live on SportsNet-PIT or Space City Home Network, with the online stream on MLB TV and Fubo TV. The first pitch will go out at 8:10 PM EDT.

Astros vs. Pirates Prediction

This game will depend on the offense to help each team win. With rookie pitchers on the mound, this could be a high-scoring game. The Astros have a decent offense after smashing 121 home runs, while the Pirates have hit 106 home runs in total.

Pittsburgh has a better ERA at 3.81 and is ranked at No. 11 and Houston is ranked at No. 15 with a 4.02 ERA. The Pirates hold a 54-52 record while their opponent holds a 55-51 slate.

With the odds on their side and the offense to help back up their starter, the Astros are predicted to win.

Prediction: Houston Astros - 1.5 (-190)