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The Houston Astros face their AL East rival, the Tampa Bay Rays, at Minute Maid Park on Friday. After an unexpected series loss against the Pittsburgh Pirates, the Stros must win this set to continue their dominance atop the AL East.
The Astros rebounded well after a slow start this spring. Houston will place newly acquired Yusei Kikuchi on the mound to open Game 1. The perennial contenders struck a deal with the Blue Jays just before the 2024 MLB trade deadline to acquire the veteran left-handed hurler. Kikuchi currently has a 4-9 record with a 4.75 ERA. While many believe Kikuchi is not a great pickup for the team, Houston has set their hopes high on the 27-year-old.
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The Rays rank fourth in the AL East, and the playoffs seem questionable with their current roster. Before the deadline, the Rays traded Randy Arozarena, one of their top players, to the Mariners. In their last game, the Rays lost 6-2 against the Marlins.
Right-handed pitcher Shane Baz will get the mound as their Game 1 starter. Baz is a rookie with a 3.66 ERA. Facing the powerful Astros offense will be challenging for the righty.
Astros vs. Rays Baseball Betting Odds
Where to watch Astros vs. Rays?
Game 1 will be telecast on Space City Home Network, Bally Sports Sun and MLBN. The online stream will take place on MLB TV and Fubo. The first pitch will go out at 8:10 PM EDT.
Astros vs. Rays Prediction
The Rays have not been confident with their recent offense. Baz is a rookie pitcher, but Kikuchi had a bad run with the Blue Jays this season. When looking at both pitchers and their numbers, it's clear that each team's offense must back them up with runs.
The bullpens will also play a crucial role here. The Rays are ranked No. 27 in runs scored with 432, whereas the Stros are ranked No. 11 with 502 runs scored. That said, Houston has a better chance of winning this game. The Rays will struggle on the mound with their weak pitching staff.
Prediction: Houston Astros -1.5 (-155)
