ALCS Game 4: Astros vs. Rangers - Betting Analysis

Introduction

The ALCS heats up with Game 5 between the Houston Astros and the Texas Rangers. Let's delve into how these teams have fared and analyze the factors that make the over of 9 runs the best bet for this matchup.

Houston Astros

The Astros find themselves trailing 2-1 in the series, having suffered losses in the first two games against the Rangers but bounced back and beat the Rangers in the first game in Texas. They'll be eager to tie this series in Game 4.

Team Analysis

Batting

The Astros possess a potent batting lineup, led by Yordan Alvarez and Kyle Tucker. Alvarez has contributed 31 home runs and 97 RBIs, while Tucker boasts a .284 batting average and 112 RBIs.

The Astros' batting prowess was on full display during the regular season, where they ranked among the league leaders in runs scored, home runs, and batting average. Their ability to consistently get on base and drive in runs has been their key to success.

Pitching

To attempt and send the Astros home with a 3-2 lead in the best-of-seven series, Justin Verlander will now get a second chance against the Rangers. Verlander has made two strong starts so far in the postseason and is 1-1 overall. In 12.2 innings thrown, he has given up just two runs on 10 hits. In the postseason, Verlander has a 1.42 ERA, a 1.18 WHIP, and a 7.8 K/9 rate. 

However, it's worth noting that the Astros' bullpen has faced some challenges in this series, giving up crucial runs in the late innings. This weakness could be exploited by the Rangers' lineup, which has shown the ability to capitalize on late-game opportunities.

Texas Rangers

The Rangers have had a strong start to the series, leading 2-1 after winning the first 3 games. They aim to bounce back and found a way to slow down the Astros offense in Game 4.

Team Analysis

Batting

Adolis Garcia has been a standout performer for the Rangers with 39 home runs and 107 RBIs, providing significant power to their lineup. Garcia's ability to hit for both power and average has been a driving force behind the Rangers' success.

The Rangers' batting order, while not as heralded as the Astros', has shown depth and resilience. They've consistently put pressure on opposing pitchers, working pitch counts and getting on base. This approach has paid off, particularly in close games where timely hits can make the difference.

Pitching

Jordan Montgomery, will take the mound for the Rangers in Game 5. With a 2-0 record, 2.08 ERA, and 1.27 WHIP over his previous three outings, Montgomery has been effective. In the playoffs, he faced the Astros in Houston and won that start. He pitched 6.1 innings, giving up 0 runs, five hits, and six strikeouts while allowing no earned runs.

Andrew Heaney is 4-4 with an ERA of 3.35 and 80 strikeouts in 15 appearances against the Astros in his career. The Rangers will rely on his ability to pitch deep into the game and keep the Astros' hitters off balance.

Prediction

Game 5 of the ALCS between the Astros and the Rangers promises to be an exciting game. Both teams possess strong batting lineups, and the pitching matchup will be absolutely fun to watch with Verlander vs Montgomery.

Considering the factors at play, I believe the Astros have the advantage even how Montgomery has pitched. The Astros have found their way and once they do that it's impossible to any team to stop them. They have been better on the road than at home this season so they must win this game to keep their world series hopes.

Pick: Astros ML