Kansas City Royals (51-102) vs. Houston Astros (85-68)
Kansas City Royals vs. Houston Astros 9/22/23 – The Kansas City Royals are gearing up to battle the Houston Astros in an intriguing Friday night clash, one that offers more excitement than a cursory glance at the teams’ season records might reveal. Slated for 8:10 PM ET on September 22, 2023, at Minute Maid Park, the game will be broadcast on SportsNet SW.
Although the Royals lag behind with a 51-102 record, they’ve recently caught fire, emerging victorious in 7 of their past 8 matchups. While their season stats like a .244 batting average and 635 runs may not turn heads, their recent form suggests they could be a tough outing for any team. That said, their pitching metrics, including a 5.19 ERA and a 1.41 WHIP, leave much to be desired. Historically, they’ve also struggled against the Astros, with a 4-8 record in their last 12 games.
On the other side, the Houston Astros, boasting an 85-68 record, are laser-focused on making a substantial postseason impact. Their formidable lineup, highlighted by a .259 batting average, 789 runs, and an impressive 211 home runs, stands as testimony to their offensive capabilities. While their pitching staff presents a balanced front with a 4.00 ERA and a 1.29 WHIP, they’ve encountered some home-field struggles recently, losing 10 of their last 14 games at Minute Maid Park. Don’t forget to check out free up-to-date baseball picks for insights and predictions on their next matchup.
Kansas City Royals vs. Houston Astros Game Info
| When: | Friday, September 22, 2023 at 8:10 PM ET |
| Where: | Minute Maid Park |
| TV: | SportsNet SW |
| Stream | MLB.TV |
Cole Ragans (6-4 W-L, 3.33 ERA) vs. Framber Valdez (12-10 W-L, 3.2 ERA)
Cole Ragans will be the starting pitcher for the Royals. Despite the team’s overall poor performance, Ragans has maintained a respectable 6-4 record and a 3.33 ERA in 83.2 innings pitched. He’s allowed only 62 hits and has struck out 100 batters, making him a beacon of hope for Kansas City. His control, indicated by just 33 walks and 6 home runs, could be a critical factor in a game where every pitch counts.
On the Astros side, Framber Valdez will take the mound with a 12-10 win-loss record and a slightly lower 3.2 ERA. Over 188.2 innings, he has allowed 157 hits and struck out 183 batters. His control has been equally commendable, as indicated by 49 walks and 18 home runs allowed. His experience and form make him a solid choice for this pivotal game.
MLB Odds/Point Spread: Houston Astros -215, Total Odds: 8
The Astros are the heavy favorites in this matchup, with a moneyline of -215. The Royals, meanwhile, are at +194, making them the underdogs. The spread for the Royals is +1.5 at -120, while the Astros have a spread of -1.5 at even money (+100). The total is set at 8, with the over at -115 and the under at -105.
Kansas City Royals Betting Trends
The Royals have been surging recently, going 7-1 straight up in their last 8 games. However, they’ve had a rough history against the Astros, with a 4-8 SU record in their last 12 matchups. The Royals have also found it challenging to win on the road against Houston, holding a 1-5 SU record in their last 6 encounters. When it comes to totals, the UNDER has hit in 4 of their last 5 road games.
Houston Astros Betting Trends
Houston is on a bit of a rough patch, going 3-6 SU in their last 9 games and 4-10 SU in their last 14 at home. Despite this, they have a strong home record against the Royals, winning 5 of their last 6 matchups. The UNDER has also been a trend in Astros games, occurring in 6 of their last 9.
Kansas City Royals vs. Houston Astros 9/22/23 Betting Picks
Based on recent form, the Royals have momentum, but the Astros have the statistical advantage and a favorable history against Kansas City. Given the Astros’ recent slump and the Royals’ surge, a bet on the Royals to cover the spread at +1.5 (-120) might be worth the risk.
For the total, the current trends point to an UNDER 8, considering that both teams have shown strong pitching and have hit the UNDER in their recent games. Check out exclusive sports picks for more betting insights.
Free Pick and Prediction: Houston Astros 4, Kansas City Royals 2.