MLB Player Props Betting Guide: Pittsburgh Pirates vs Houston Astros

MLB Player Props Betting Guide: Pittsburgh Pirates vs Houston Astros

Photo Credit: © Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports

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Game Summary

The Pittsburgh Pirates (53-52, third in the NL Central) will be visiting the Houston Astros (55-50, first in the AL West) at Minute Maid Park on Monday, July 29, 2024, at 8:10 p.m. EDT. This game marks the first of a three-game series between these two teams. The Astros have a strong home record of 30-22, while the Pirates have been slightly above average on the road with a 27-26 record. Notably, the Astros have a 43-26 record in games where they record eight or more hits, demonstrating their offensive prowess when they get their bats going. The Pirates, on the other hand, boast the sixth-ranked team ERA in the National League at 3.83, showcasing their pitching strength.

Yordan Alvarez has been a standout performer for the Astros, accumulating 25 doubles, two triples, 20 home runs, and 54 RBIs this season. Additionally, Jeremy Pena has been hot recently, going 14-for-38 with two doubles, two home runs, and six RBIs over the last 10 games. For the Pirates, Connor Joe has recorded 18 doubles, a triple, seven home runs, and 31 RBIs, while Oneil Cruz has been impressive in the last 10 games, going 13-for-40 with five doubles, a triple, and three home runs.

Injuries: The Astros have several key players on the IL, including Justin Verlander (neck) and Kyle Tucker (shin). The Pirates are also dealing with injuries, including Nick Gonzales (undisclosed) and Bailey Falter (arm).

Player Prop Odds

Yasmani Grandal - Batter Hits Over 0.5 (-180)

Yasmani Grandal - Batter RBIs Over 0.5 (+155)

Yasmani Grandal - Batter Runs Scored Over 0.5 (+105)

Yasmani Grandal - Batter Singles Over 0.5 (+100)

Yasmani Grandal - Batter Total Bases Over 1.5 (+150)

Player Analysis: Yasmani Grandal

Yasmani Grandal has been a consistent performer for his team, showcasing a mix of power and a good eye at the plate. This season, he has demonstrated the ability to get on base frequently and contribute offensively in various ways. With a total of 10 home runs and 35 RBIs, Grandal has provided a solid middle-of-the-lineup presence. His ability to draw walks and get on base is reflected in his .350 OBP. Betting on Grandal to get at least one hit (-180) seems like a strong proposition given his current form and the matchup.

Opposing Analysis: Houston Astros Pitching

The Astros will be starting Jake Bloss, who has struggled this season with an ERA of 6.94 and a WHIP of 1.63 over 11.2 innings pitched. Bloss has allowed 16 hits and 11 strikeouts, showing vulnerability against opposing batters. Given Bloss's struggles and Grandal's ability to capitalize on such matchups, this could be an advantageous situation for Grandal to rack up some hits and potentially RBIs.

Pitching Probables

Player	W-L	ERA	WHIP	IP	H	K	BB	HR
Paul Skenes (PIT)	6-1	1.93	0.87	74.2	52	97	13	8
Jake Bloss (HOU)	0-1	6.94	1.63	11.2	16	11	3	5

Team Previews

Pittsburgh Pirates

The Pirates have been solid this season with a 53-52 record. They are ranked second in hits (943) and batting average (.262) in the NL, indicating a strong offensive lineup. Their pitching staff has also been commendable, holding a 3.83 ERA, which is the sixth-best in the league. Their fielding, however, has been an issue with 43 errors, ranking them 29th. Their starting pitchers have been consistent, and their relief pitching has been reliable with 25 saves, placing them in the middle of the pack.

Houston Astros

Despite their injuries, the Astros have managed to maintain a 55-50 record. Offensively, they have struggled a bit, ranking 26th in hits (822) and 23rd in runs (436). Their batting average is also low at .232. On the pitching side, they have been better with a 3.83 ERA, ranking 12th in the league. Their fielding has been average with 51 errors. The starting pitchers have been their strength, and their bullpen has been decent with 26 saves.

Team Injuries

Player	Position	Injury	Injury Status
Nick Gonzales	2B	Undisclosed	10-Day IL
Bailey Falter	SP	Arm	15-Day IL
Justin Verlander	SP	Neck	15-Day IL
Cristian Javier	SP	Forearm	60-Day IL
Kyle Tucker	RF	Shin	10-Day IL

Recent Games

Pittsburgh Pirates

Opponent	Score	W/L
vs Philadelphia	W 8-7	W
vs Philadelphia	W 4-1	W
vs Philadelphia	L 6-0	L
vs St. Louis	W 2-1	W
vs St. Louis	L 2-1	L

Houston Astros

Opponent	Score	W/L
@ Seattle	W 3-0	W
@ Seattle	W 4-2	W
@ Seattle	L 6-4	L
@ Oakland	L 4-0	L
@ Oakland	L 8-2	L

Prediction

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