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Castellanos’ Phillies Aim for Sweep in Astros Series Finale

The Astros and the Phillies will meet on the field at Citizens Bank Park in a battle of interleague teams.

(Photo by Getty Images) Nick Castellanos

Houston (70-62) at Philadelphia (78-54)

  • When: Aug 28 2024, 4:05 PM
  • Where: Citizens Bank Park, Philadelphia
  • Where to watch: NBCS-PH

Game Odds, Spread, Moneyline & Total

Houston Astros @ Philadelphia Phillies
Moneyline

Houston Astros   -112
Philadelphia Phillies   -108

Houston Astros @ Philadelphia Phillies
Runline

Houston Astros   -1.5 (+140)
Philadelphia Phillies   1.5 (-165)

Houston Astros @ Philadelphia Phillies
Total

Over   10.0 (-105)
Under   10.0 (-115)

Probable Pitchers:
Houston: Spencer Arrighetti (6-11, 4.94)
Philadelphia: Taijuan Walker (3-5, 6.26)

Team Stats

Astros   Phillies
70-62 Record 78-54
35-33 Away & Home 34-31
4-6 Last 10 6-4
L2 Streak W4

Game Preview

Nick Castellanos consistently receives strong backing from his manager, Rob Thomson, who has ensured Castellanos’ regular appearance in the Philadelphia Phillies’ lineup every game this season. Castellanos will be in action again on Wednesday as the Phillies aim for a sweep against the Houston Astros.

Despite a slow start with a .521 OPS through April and ongoing struggles into May, Castellanos has found his rhythm over the summer and continues to perform well as August ends. The veteran right fielder has recorded hits in five consecutive games and 13 of the last 15, highlighted by a crucial three-run homer off Justin Verlander in Tuesday’s 5-0 win.

Discussing his batting strategy, Castellanos mentioned, "I just focus on seeing the ball and hitting it with all I’ve got."

He reminisced about Thomson’s confidence in him since Opening Day, aiming for him to play in all 162 games—a feat he nearly achieved last season with 157 games. "Having a manager who believes in you is crucial. It makes all the difference in how you show up to play," Castellanos added.

Thomson praised Castellanos for his recent performance and crucial third-inning home run that contributed to the Phillies’ fourth consecutive win.

The Phillies are hopeful for another strong performance from their pitchers, looking to Taijuan Walker (3-5, 6.26 ERA) to rebound from a rough start where he allowed six runs in three innings against the Kansas City Royals last Friday.

"It’s been tough recently," Walker admitted. "I’m eager to contribute more effectively and lift the team."

The Astros will respond with rookie Spencer Arrighetti (6-11, 4.94 ERA), who boasts a 2.55 ERA across four starts this month. Arrighetti recently held the Baltimore Orioles scoreless over six innings, outperforming All-Star Corbin Burnes.

"I thrive on competition and always aim to surpass the other pitcher," Arrighetti said.

Houston’s hitters, like Yainer Diaz and Jeremy Pena, have struggled in the series, hoping to provide better support for their pitchers. The Astros, having lost six of their last eight games, are eager to avoid a sweep, something they haven’t experienced since a series against the Chicago Cubs in late April.

Justin Verlander reflected on the team’s recent challenges, "Sometimes, small things can determine the outcome of a game, especially against tough teams. We’ve played well, but it hasn’t always translated into wins."

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MLB Parlay Picks & Predictions

Final Score: Houston 5-4
Expert Pick: Houston -112 & Under 10 (-115)
A $100 Parlay Bet will return $354

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