Los Angeles Dodgers vs. Houston Astros Pick 7/26/24 – As we edge closer to the postseason, every game’s importance escalates, particularly for teams like the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Houston Astros, who will clash on July 26, 2024, at Minute Maid Park. The Dodgers, with a strong 62-42 record, visit the Astros who are currently 53-49 this season. This matchup promises to be an intriguing one given the historical contests between these two teams and their current form. For fans and bettors alike, this game is a must-watch, offering potentially valuable MLB free picks.
Los Angeles Dodgers vs. Houston Astros Pick 7/26/24 Game Info |
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When: | Friday, July 26, 2024 at 8:10 PM ET |
Where: | Minute Maid Park |
TV: | ATV+ |
Stream: | MLB.TV |
Los Angeles Dodgers (62-42) vs. Houston Astros (53-49)
The Los Angeles Dodgers have a cumulative batting average of .253 and 139 home runs and their lineup is dangerous for opposition teams. Another observation is the fact that Dodgers are especially good at the climax of a particular match because of their 6-1 success rate in the recent games. Searage and company’s on-base percentage of .334 coupled with their slugging percentage of .436 support their operational effectiveness on the attacking front.
The current team batting average of .261 and the cumulative 916 hits as an Astros show that they are capable of hitting the ball. While the Orioles hit more than a few less home runs than the Dodgers and a bit less than half as many that are slugged by the Dodgers, the fact remains that throughout the tightly contested games in the American League, they have gotten on base and scored runs at a sufficient rate.
Gavin Stone (9-3, 3.19 ERA) vs. Framber Valdez (8-5, 3.63 ERA)
Gavin Stone is one of the key players for Dodgers this season having a record of 9-3 and an okay 3.19 ERA. Stone is a very controlled pitcher who has a very high efficiency; his opponents’ batting average is only .228 in over 101 innings pitched. His aiming prowess has resulted in 79 Ks so far, thus his striking out of batters fertilizes his team’s defense moves. Their chances will greatly depend on Stone’s approach to the game as the Astros are resilient especially when playing at home.
Framber Valdez takes the mound for the Astros, owning 8-5 with a 3.63 ERA coming into the game. While pitching Valdez has 88 strikeouts in over 104 innings and has a WHIP of 1.28 which shows that he is good at controlling the runs of the batters. Sometimes, he has some issues with walks, but his experience and composure will be crucial for Astros who try to prevent the powerful Dodgers’ bat.
MLB Odds/Point Spread: Los Angeles Dodgers -109, Total Odds: 8
The betting lines reflect a tightly contested matchup with both teams listed at -109 on the moneyline, suggesting an evenly matched game. The total runs line is set at 8, aligning with the offensive capabilities and recent trends of both teams.
Los Angeles Dodgers Betting Trends
The total has gone OVER in four of the Dodgers’ last six games, but they have struggled on the road, going 1-6 in their last seven away games. Historically, the total has gone UNDER in 10 of their last 14 games when playing on the road against Houston, which could influence betting strategies focusing on the total runs.
Houston Astros Betting Trends
The Astros have been exceptional at home, and their dominance in Minute Maid Park is well-documented with a 10-2 record in their recent fixtures. The total has gone UNDER in six of their last seven games against National League West Division opponents, which might suggest a tighter game against the Dodgers.
Los Angeles Dodgers vs. Houston Astros 7/26/24 Betting Picks
Considering the potent offense of the Dodgers and the strong home performance of the Astros, this game is set to be a close one. Both teams have their strengths, which should converge to produce an exciting contest. However, given the Dodgers’ overall stronger performance metrics and recent form, they might just edge out as the favorites in this matchup.
While it’s tempting to back the home team, the Dodgers’ recent form and statistical advantage in batting and pitching slightly tip the scales in their favor. Look for the game to possibly exceed the total runs line, given the offensive tendencies of both teams. As for prop bets, consider options that favor the Dodgers’ top hitters and Astros’ resilience at home. Premium picks today might lean towards taking the Dodgers to cover the spread, especially with the attractive odds on offer.