As we come towards the end of yet another thrilling MLB season, the importance of the impending conflict between the Arizona Diamondbacks (79-64) vs. Houston Astros (77-65) at the Minute Maid Park to postseason prospects cannot be overstated. The match to take place on Sunday is very critical for both teams, with a little difference, and both are trying to improve their position in the playoff structure. Handicappers review today is dedicated to the most awaited match of the day, where prices sky up and so do the fans’ moods.
Arizona Diamondbacks vs. Houston Astros 9/8/24 Game Info and Odds |
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| When: | Sunday, September 8, 2024 at 7:10 PM ET |
| Where: | Minute Maid Park |
| Watch: | Fubo, ESPN, MLB.TV |
| Diamondbacks odds: | +119 Moneyline |
| Astros odds: | -141 Moneyline |
| Total Line: | 8.5 |
Arizona Diamondbacks (79-64) vs. Houston Astros (77-65)
The Diamondbacks, with a .261 batting average and notable power at the plate, have shown inconsistency in their recent outings. Their last five games reveal a troubling trend, with losses mounting, including back-to-back defeats to the Astros by wide margins (5-11, 0-8). Before these losses, they split a series with San Francisco, showcasing their ability to compete yet also their vulnerability.
| Arizona Diamondbacks Last 5 Games | |||
| Date | Opponent | Score | SU |
| Sep 7, 2024 | HOU | 5-11 | Lose |
| Sep 6, 2024 | HOU | 0-8 | Lose |
| Sep 5, 2024 | SF | 2-3 | Lose |
| Sep 4, 2024 | SF | 6-4 | Win |
| Sep 3, 2024 | SF | 8-7 | Win |
Conversely, the Astros have demonstrated resilience and strong home form. Their last five games saw them dominating the Diamondbacks in recent matchups and recovering well from a disappointing series against Cincinnati. The Astros’ ability to leverage home advantage is evident, having won their last six games at Minute Maid Park.
| Houston Astros Last 5 Games | |||
| Date | Opponent | Score | SU |
| Sep 7, 2024 | ARI | 11-5 | Win |
| Sep 6, 2024 | ARI | 8-0 | Win |
| Sep 5, 2024 | CIN | 0-1 | Lose |
| Sep 4, 2024 | CIN | 5-12 | Lose |
| Sep 2, 2024 | CIN | 3-5 | Lose |
Ryne Nelson (10-6, 4.15 ERA) vs. Justin Verlander (3-5, 4.52 ERA)
Ryne Nelson for the Diamondbacks has an ERA of 4.15 and WHIP of 1.26 after 143 innings pitched this season, they are known for struggles especially in the areas of home run issues and in high-stress situations. There are some of his latest outings that feels he needs to work on, especially when he faces the strong Houston Astros’ batting order.
This year may not be impressive on the record for Justin Verlander, but he brings a lot of experience and pop in critical games. He has pitched a total of 71.2 innings and, in those games, has a 4.52 ERA and 63 Ks. Verlander’s season has been plagued with injuries like other players, but that does not mean he is not useful in important games.
MLB Odds/Point Spread: Houston Astros -1.5 (+146), Total Odds: 8.5
The current betting odds lean slightly towards the Astros, particularly considering their formidable home record and recent dominance over the Diamondbacks. The total has frequently gone over when these teams have met, especially in Houston.
Arizona Diamondbacks Betting Trends
It’s worth remembering that Arizona’s last games varied a lot and the prediction of the over was usually made, as the team is lacking stamina in their pitching even if their offense can burst with big offensive frames. Their recent form has shown poor performance against teams with dominant bullpens and those with strong starting pitchers, which puts any punters supporting an Arizona upset at risk.
Houston Astros Betting Trends
Considering Houston’s impressive home record along with their hitting, they should be a safe bet, particularly with the prices offered. The way they exploit the errors of the opposition and how well the relief pitchers manage to stave off runs in the late innings gives them the confidence to chase tight games.
Arizona Diamondbacks vs. Houston Astros 9/8/24 Betting Picks
The analysis and recent performances strongly suggest that the Astros hold the upper hand, especially with their consistent record at home and historical dominance over the Diamondbacks. With the betting trends favoring Houston and the total regularly exceeding expectations, it’s prudent to favor the Astros in this matchup.
For baseball free picks, consider Houston to cover the -1.5 spread and the total going over 8.5. The tendency of both teams to engage in high-scoring games at Minute Maid Park provides a solid foundation for these bets, offering potential value for bettors looking to capitalize on the trends.