Houston (52-34) at LA Dodgers (55-32)
- When: Jul 4 2025, 9:10 PM
- Where: Dodger Stadium, Los Angeles
- Where to watch: SportsNet LA
Astros vs Dodgers – Game Preview & Expert Predictions
Moneyline: LA Dodgers -180
Total: 9.5
RunLine: LA Dodgers -1.5 (+110)
Los Angeles Dodgers Breakdown
The Dodgers welcome the Houston Astros for a three-game set that still stirs emotions from the tainted 2017 World Series. While many players have moved on, the rivalry hasn’t cooled, and Dodger fans haven’t forgotten.
Los Angeles comes in scorching hot, riding a 15-3 run since mid-June and fresh off a clean sweep of the White Sox. The bats are heating up, Freddie Freeman posted three RBIs in the series finale, while Mookie Betts snapped a home run drought with a timely blast.
Rookie Ben Casparius (6-2, 3.97 ERA) gets the nod, and he’s slowly stretching out to become more than just a bulk-inning guy. Manager Dave Roberts is hoping for at least five innings from the right-hander, who’s facing the Astros for the first time in his young career.
Dodgers Prop Pick: Freddie Freeman to record 2+ hits – He’s dialed in, and facing a vulnerable starter in McCullers gives him prime opportunity.
Houston Astros Breakdown
The Astros head to L.A. after splitting two games in Colorado, highlighted by Jose Altuve climbing into second all-time on Houston’s hit list. Offensively, Houston looks sharp, 13 hits and a 3-hit performance from rookie Cam Smith showed signs of depth.
But the concern is on the mound. Lance McCullers Jr. (1-3, 6.61 ERA) gets the ball for only his second start since coming back from a foot injury. His return was anything but pretty, eight earned runs in just over three innings against the Cubs, with three long balls surrendered.
Even with a dominant career stat line vs. L.A. (1.02 ERA in three games), McCullers is clearly not in peak form. He’ll need a miracle to keep this offense contained in a road environment like Dodger Stadium.
Astros Prop Pick: Jose Altuve to record a run – He’s been red-hot and continues to get on base at an elite clip.
Prediction & Betting Outlook
The Dodgers are too locked in right now, and with McCullers still shaking off rust, it’s hard to envision Houston shutting them down. The LA offense should break through early, and Casparius will do just enough to hand it off to a strong bullpen. Expect a few fireworks, but the home team covers the -180 comfortably and the runline at +110.
Best Bet: LA Dodgers -1.5 (+110)
Toral: Over 9.5 (-105)
Final Score Prediction: Dodgers 7, Astros 4
- MLB Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
- Get real-time live scores & latest betting odds here!
