Detroit (18-10) at Houston (14-13)
- When: Apr 28 2025, 8:10 PM
- Where: Daikin Park, Houston
- Where to watch: SCHN2
Tigers vs. Astros Game 1 Betting Preview, Expert Prediction & Best Player Props
Moneyline: Houston -118 | Total: 7.5
Detroit Tigers Overview
The Tigers are flying high after dominating their 10-game homestand, finishing with an 8-2 record after a decisive 7-0 win against Baltimore. Tarik Skubal once again proved why he’s viewed as one of the best arms in the American League, striking out 11 Orioles and pitching six shutout innings.
Now comes a real test — a lengthy 10-game road swing beginning in Houston, where Detroit has struggled historically. While the Tigers have clinched seven of their first nine series this season, their offense has been inconsistent away from home, and they’ll need sharper performances if they want to carry the momentum forward.
Jack Flaherty (1-2, 2.63 ERA) will get the start, having thrown well despite receiving minimal run support recently. Flaherty has a solid 2.92 career ERA against Houston and is trending toward another quality outing if he can avoid the long ball.
Houston Astros Overview
The Astros snapped a mini-skid by beating Kansas City 7-3 behind a vintage Yordan Alvarez performance, highlighted by a three-run homer. Houston hopes that breakout game sparks Alvarez and the entire lineup moving into this series against Detroit.
Ronel Blanco (2-2, 5.01 ERA) is Houston’s choice for the opener. Blanco is coming off his best performance of the year — a near seven-inning gem against Toronto — and has historically dominated the Tigers. He notably held Detroit hitless over seven innings last June, showing his ability to control this matchup.
Houston will rely on Blanco setting the tone early while hoping their bats — led by Alvarez and Jose Altuve — can pressure Flaherty out of his comfort zone.
Best Player Props Picks
Jack Flaherty Over 6.5 Strikeouts
Flaherty has fanned 22 batters over his last 16 innings and faces an Astros lineup that can be aggressive at the plate.
Ronel Blanco Over 5.5 Strikeouts
Blanco’s previous start vs Detroit saw him strike out eight. Expect another strong showing against a Tigers offense that can cool off quickly on the road.
Yordan Alvarez Total Bases Over 1.5
After breaking out of his slump on Sunday, Alvarez is a threat to deliver extra-base hits again against Flaherty and the Tigers’ bullpen.
Riley Greene to Record 1+ RBI
Greene has been one of Detroit’s most reliable bats and should find opportunities if Blanco isn’t as sharp as last time.
MLB Expert Prediction
This game shapes up to be a tight battle between two in-form starting pitchers. However, Houston’s edge at home and the signs of life from Alvarez and the offense give them the slight advantage.
Pick: Astros ML (-118)
Prediction: Houston 4, Detroit 3
Lean: Under 7.5 (-120) – Both Flaherty and Blanco have been missing bats lately, setting up a low-scoring opener in Minute Maid Park.
- MLB Odds source: MyBookie Sportsbook
