With the conclusion of the regular schedule of the MLB core season approaching, we are again at the beginning of a fantastic contest that takes place this Saturday involving the Houston Astros (87-73) and the Cleveland Guardians (92-68) at Progressive Field. Realms are set as this is not just a contest of two teams headed for the playoffs but also an entertaining action for the ones searching for MLB free picks. The time set for this action is 6.10 PM ET, guaranteeing a display of excellent tactics and winning plays.
Houston Astros vs. Cleveland Guardians 9/28/24 Game Info and Odds |
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| When: | Saturday, September 28, 2024 at 6:10 PM ET |
| Where: | Progressive Field |
| Watch: | BSGL, ESPN, MLB.TV |
| Astros odds: | -109 Moneyline |
| Guardians odds: | -109 Moneyline |
| Total Line: | 8 |
Houston Astros (87-73) vs. Cleveland Guardians (92-68)
The Houston Astros, sitting comfortably with an 87-73 record, have shown some inconsistent form leading up to this game. Analyzing their last five outings reveals a mix of missed opportunities and sheer dominance. The Astros recently succumbed to the Seattle Mariners with scores of 1-8 and 1-6, both games highlighting their offensive struggles. However, victories against the Mariners and Los Angeles Angels showcased their ability to bounce back with potent batting performances.
| Houston Astros Last 5 Games | |||
| Date | Opponent | Score | SU |
| Sep 25, 2024 | SEA | 1-8 | Lose |
| Sep 24, 2024 | SEA | 4-3 | Win |
| Sep 23, 2024 | SEA | 1-6 | Lose |
| Sep 22, 2024 | LAA | 8-9 | Lose |
| Sep 21, 2024 | LAA | 10-4 | Win |
On the flip side, the Cleveland Guardians have demonstrated a robust form with a strong finish in their recent games, holding a 92-68 record. The Guardians have triumphed in their last two encounters against the Cincinnati Reds with scores of 5-2 and 6-1, showing a solid combination of pitching and timely hitting. Despite setbacks against the St. Louis Cardinals (1-2, 5-6), their ability to regroup and win the series finale 5-1 indicates resilience and a deep roster ready for postseason challenges.
| Cleveland Guardians Last 5 Games | |||
| Date | Opponent | Score | SU |
| Sep 25, 2024 | CIN | 5-2 | Win |
| Sep 24, 2024 | CIN | 6-1 | Win |
| Sep 22, 2024 | STL | 1-2 | Lose |
| Sep 21, 2024 | STL | 5-6 | Lose |
| Sep 20, 2024 | STL | 5-1 | Win |
Justin Verlander (4-6, 5.55 ERA) vs. Ben Lively (13-9, 3.8 ERA)
One of the more veteran players of the Astros, Justin Verlander, this season has been quite complicated with a 5.55 ERA and a 1.4 WHIP after 84.1 innings. Among 91 hits and 14 home runs served to the batters, one might pinpoint this issue which may pose a threat against a decent lineup of Guardians. Perhaps it is Verlander’s extensive resume of competing in big games that will turn out to be his greatest advantage, as the resident of panic in his performances is well known.
On the other hand, Ben Lively has been fairly consistent for the guardians with a 13-9 record and an impressive 3.8 ERA. In his 147 soccer matches, Lively has succeeded slightly more than average in terms of performance with 114 strikeouts and a WHIP of 1.22. Such attributes make him dangerous for the Tiger hitters, in that he is calm under pressure – and more than that – can execute the required tasks.
MLB Odds/Point Spread: Houston Astros -1.5 (+144), Total Odds: 8
The betting odds indicate a close fight between the two, with both teams standing on the moneyline at -109 and the total line being 8. Considering the recent trend of the Astros struggling on the away team and the Guardians playing well at home, it’s a tough game to call.
Houston Astros Betting Trends
The Astros are 10 5 in their last 15 games, a pretty good streak, but they have been inconsistent in playing on the road, hence the total going UNDER in 7 of the team’s last 8 away games. They have been impressive against the Guardians in all the recent four contests- in these four matches, they have lost only one, thus a good confidence boost.
Cleveland Guardians Betting Trends
The Guardians have played well recently particularly at home as evidenced by a total going UNDER in 11 out of their last 13 fixtures showcasing their ability on the mound. Based on their recent history against the Astros and their overall record at home, they may have some edge in this matchup.
Houston Astros vs. Cleveland Guardians 9/28/24 Betting Picks
Considering both teams’ thorough assessment and present form, this game will be a hard-fought showdown. The Guardians have an edge in the pitching department with Ben Lively on the mound so they should have the upper hand over the others. Both teams tend to go under the total, so a game that is not expected to be high scoring is likely to be in the offing.
As for those interested in possessing exclusive predictions today, it is going out on a limb to imagine the Guardians failing to make the most of their home advantage and a good outing from Lively. Looking at the prop bets, total strikeouts and under on total runs can be of valuable proposition, too.