With the MLB regular season coming to an end, it is rather interesting to look at the playoff scenarios as each game becomes crucial for those looking to secure a place or those trying to sabotage the playoff chances of their opponents. On the other hand, this Sunday will bring the struggling Los Angeles Angels (62-93) against the playoff-performing Houston Astros (85-70) at Minute Maid Park. Given the playoff scenarios involved and the fact that they want to win their final games during the season, our expert premium tips imply that this is more than just another day on the calendar scheduled for a game.
Los Angeles Angels vs. Houston Astros 9/22/24 Game Info and Odds |
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| When: | Sunday, September 22, 2024 at 2:10 PM ET |
| Where: | Minute Maid Park |
| Watch: | BSW, ESPN, MLB.TV |
| Angels odds: | +235 Moneyline |
| Astros odds: | -286 Moneyline |
| Total Line: | 8.5 |
Los Angeles Angels (62-93) vs. Houston Astros (85-70)
The Los Angeles Angels enter this game with a series of disappointing results, having lost their grip in recent encounters, evident from their 2-9 SU record in the last 11 games. Their struggle is further highlighted by their performance against the Astros, against whom they’ve lost the last six encounters. This streak includes the recent back-to-back defeats where the Angels showed some spark but couldn’t clinch the win. However, those winnings against the White Sox show some resilience.
| Los Angeles Angels Last 5 Games | |||
| Date | Opponent | Score | SU |
| Sep 21, 2024 | HOU | 4-10 | Lose |
| Sep 20, 2024 | HOU | 7-9 | Lose |
| Sep 19, 2024 | HOU | 1-3 | Lose |
| Sep 18, 2024 | CHW | 4-3 | Win |
| Sep 17, 2024 | CHW | 5-0 | Win |
Conversely, the Houston Astros have been showing a formidable form, as seen in their 8-2 SU record over the last 10 games. The team’s consistency at home is noteworthy, with the total going OVER in 8 of their last 10 games at Minute Maid Park. Their recent victories over the Angels and Padres, combined with a strong home advantage, position them as favorites for this upcoming clash.
| Houston Astros Last 5 Games | |||
| Date | Opponent | Score | SU |
| Sep 21, 2024 | LAA | 10-4 | Win |
| Sep 20, 2024 | LAA | 9-7 | Win |
| Sep 19, 2024 | LAA | 3-1 | Win |
| Sep 18, 2024 | SD | 0-4 | Lose |
| Sep 17, 2024 | SD | 4-3 | Win |
Griffin Canning (2-1 W-L, 3.84 ERA) vs. Spencer Arrighetti (7-13 W-L, 4.68 ERA)
Starting pitcher Griffin Canning of the Angels has exhibited good performances with a 3.84 ERA, and 58.2 innings pitched, yet allowing a WHIP of 1.28. The fact that he has been able to record a total of 56 strikeouts this season could come in handy in preventing the situation of his team’s hitters facing the Astros’ hitters. Nevertheless, the fact that he has pitched only a few innings so far this season would also mean that he lacks the depth that will enable him to go deep into games.
So far, it’s been a difficult season for Spencer Arrighetti of the Astros, as suggested by his win-loss record of 7-13 and a high 4.68 ERA. In spite of these setbacks, he has been able to record a total of 161 strike ebouts in a span of 136.2 innings. His higher WHIP of 1.43 does show that he is not all that consistent, which is something that the Angels can take advantage of if they manage to get on Garrett early in the game and force him into making difficult pitches early in the game.
MLB Odds/Point Spread: Houston Astros -1.5 (-132), Total Odds: 8.5
The odds are heavily on the Astros’ side owing to their overall performance during the season as well as being the home team. At present and barring any recent developments, bettors may be more inclined to betting on the Astros to cover the spread. The twin factors about both teams’ ability to clear the fences and the recent OVER trends at Minute Maid Park also suggest that the total going OVER is just as likely.
Los Angeles Angels Betting Trends
The Angels have had a difficult time performing well both on the road and in head-to-head games against the Astros. The main reason for these battles this season is their failure to win too many games against better teams. Such trends are important for at least one of the teams’ bettors who intends to back the underdog in this case.
Houston Astros Betting Trends
Aside from their decent betting trends, the recent form suggests that Houston stands a very realistic chance of winning once again. Against the Angels, it would seem that the defeat would extend. They appeared to be more consistent and showed a higher win percentage against American League opponents in the last round making this match-up a safer bet for them.
Los Angeles Angels vs. Houston Astros 9/22/24 Betting Picks
Considering how the teams performed and what they have been doing historically, I finally recommend betting on the Astros to cover the spread. Even if the Angels can upset them, taking the riskier route is the downside.
When it comes to prop bets, it is best to focus on some players for strikeouts and total bases as well. The same goes with the total runs prop, which is appealing especially considering how both teams have been scoring quite a lot lately. For no-cost MLB prediction, betting on the Astros winning combined with the over seems like a good way to go.