The MLB season is heating up as the Arizona Diamondbacks (79-62) get ready to play the Houston Astros (75-65) this Friday night. Now that we have the particulars of the matchup let’s mention the playoff implications as well. The first business is scheduled for 8:10 PM ET at Minute Maid Park, and MLBN, SCHN, and MLB.TV will televise it. Let’s use the insights offered by multi-expert premium picks and take you through what is expected to be a thrilling battle.
Diamondbacks vs. Astros 9/6/24 Game Info and Odds |
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| When: | Friday, September 6, 2024 at 8:10 PM ET |
| Where: | Minute Maid Park |
| Watch: | MLBN, SCHN, MLB.TV |
| Diamondbacks odds: | +133 Moneyline |
| Astros odds: | -145 Moneyline |
| Total Line: | 8 |
Diamondbacks (79-62) vs. Astros (75-65)
The Diamondbacks are returning with a set of results that is not very exciting. They were down last time out against the Giants (2-3) but managed to have positive results on the road, which will be crucial in this series, which is the best. They took the last two in good fashion against the Giants (6-4, 8-7), wrapped it around with a beating of the Dodgers (14-3), but then went on to lose one to the same team (6-11). Arizona’s tendency to bounce back after losses and their strong batting order means they are well-prepared for this.
| Arizona Diamondbacks Last 5 Games | |||
| Date | Opponent | Score | SU |
| Sep 5, 2024 | SF | 2-3 | Lose |
| Sep 4, 2024 | SF | 6-4 | Win |
| Sep 3, 2024 | SF | 8-7 | Win |
| Sep 1, 2024 | LAD | 6-11 | Lose |
| Aug 31, 2024 | LAD | 14-3 | Win |
In contrast, the Houston Astros have been in a bad patch in their recent games. A challenging series against the Reds saw them losing three games (0-1, 5-12, 3-5) and winning two games against the Royals, which was not enough to stop the losing streak. This inconsistency at home can be disturbing for fans from Houston. However, the team’s recent wins over the Royals 7-0 and 5-2 indicate the ability of the team to fight back when the need arises.
| Houston Astros Last 5 Games | |||
| Date | Opponent | Score | SU |
| Sep 5, 2024 | CIN | 0-1 | Lose |
| Sep 4, 2024 | CIN | 5-12 | Lose |
| Sep 2, 2024 | CIN | 3-5 | Lose |
| Sep 1, 2024 | KC | 7- | Win |
| Aug 31, 2024 | KC | 5-2 | Win |
Brandon Pfaadt (9-7, 4.32 ERA) vs. Framber Valdez (13-6, 3.11 ERA)
A commendable WHIP of 1.19 and 160 1/3 in pitched innings is sufficient for Brandon Pfaadt, who has a higher ERA of 4.32. As shown by his ability to get opposing hitters out, he has some control of the game with 155 Ks, but the 19 homers allowed him to crack under pressure. Pfaadt must be resilient since he must deal with a decided hitting strategy when pitching against the Astros.
In contrast, Valdez has been the most reliable member of the pitching staff for the Astros. Valdez, who has an impressive 3.11 ERA and 1.11 WHIP, is a stud who suppresses scoring by inducing very few hits and walks. This is vital in neutralizing the Diamondbacks batters who live for the long ball, given that he struck out 146 batters in 150.1 innings.
MLB Odds/Point Spread: Astros -1.5 (+134), Total Odds: 8
The betting odds slightly favor the Astros, reflecting their robust pitching advantage and home field. However, the total has consistently gone over when these two teams face off, suggesting a potentially high-scoring affair.
Diamondbacks Betting Trends
Arizona’s knack for high-scoring games, especially on the road, coupled with a batting lineup that can deliver under pressure, makes them a solid pick for the over total. Their trend of going OVER in 6 of their last 7 games aligns with this prediction.
Astros Betting Trends
Houston’s recent games have seen mixed outcomes with totals, but their consistent ability to perform at home cannot be overlooked. Their struggle against National League teams, however, might give Arizona an unexpected edge.
Diamondbacks vs. Astros 9/6/24 Betting Picks
Considering the facts and figures, it seems plausible that due to the nature of the road games and bats, the Diamondbacks would be able to pose a challenge to the Astros. Still, Valdez’s pitch performance could be the one factor that tips the requirements toward picking Houston as a safe moneyline option. With both teams going for tons of runs, it is very likely that the total will go over; hence, the OVER is very appealing.
The MLB matchups free picks may most likely lead the gamblers to the Astros on the money line; nevertheless, given the aggressive approach in any away game of the Diamondbacks, taking them with the spread may be more prudent. For prop bets, total strikeouts for each pitcher could add interest to this MLB matchup.