Connect with us

MLB

Kikuchi’s Astros Aim for 7th Straight Road Win vs. Rays

Tropicana Field has a contest on tap as the Astros and the Rays will both be trying to pick up a win.

(Photo by Getty Images) Yusei Kikuchi

Houston (63-55) at Tampa Bay (59-59)

  • When: Aug 13 2024, 6:50 PM
  • Where: Tropicana Field, St. Petersburg
  • Where to watch: SCHN

Game Odds, Spread, Moneyline & Total

Houston Astros @ Tampa Bay Rays
Moneyline

Houston Astros   -138
Tampa Bay Rays   +115

Houston Astros @ Tampa Bay Rays
Runline

Houston Astros   -1.5 (+130)
Tampa Bay Rays   1.5 (-150)

Houston Astros @ Tampa Bay Rays
Total

Over   7.5 (-110)
Under   7.5 (-110)

Probable Pitchers:
Houston: Yusei Kikuchi (5-9, 4.62)
Tampa Bay: Shane Baz (0-1, 4.30)

Team Stats

Astros   Rays
63-55 Record 59-59
31-29 Away & Home 28-27
7-3 Last 10 4-6
W6 Streak L1

Game Preview

The Houston Astros continue their winning ways despite changing cities, maintaining their lead in the American League West. After securing wins over the Texas Rangers and sweeping the Boston Red Sox in their recent road series, the Astros aim to clinch another series victory away from home as they take on the Tampa Bay Rays in St. Petersburg on Tuesday night.

In the series opener against Tampa Bay, Houston showcased its dominance with a strong performance both offensively and defensively, leading to a 6-1 victory. Framber Valdez excelled on the mound, striking out nine and allowing just one run over 5 2/3 innings. Catcher Yainer Diaz delivered a crucial three-run homer, helping Houston improve to 6-1 on their nine-game road trip.

Astros’ first-year manager Joe Espada noted the team’s resilience and ability to thrive in the long season. "It’s a marathon, and these players are well-prepared for it," Espada said. "They support each other and know how to win."

On Tuesday, Yusei Kikuchi (5-9, 4.62 ERA) will take the mound for the Astros, looking for his second win in three starts since joining Houston. Traded from the Toronto Blue Jays, Kikuchi has a solid track record against the Rays, with a 5-2 record and a 3.67 ERA in previous matchups.

Tampa Bay, which salvaged a win against the Baltimore Orioles on Sunday, struggled offensively in the series opener against Houston, managing only four hits. Rays’ starting pitcher Taj Bradley, the AL Pitcher of the Month for July, had an off game, contributing to the Rays’ third consecutive loss.

Rays manager Kevin Cash acknowledged the team’s offensive struggles and lack of adjustments during games. "We’re working hard, but nothing is coming easily at the plate," Cash said. "We need to do a better job of adjusting."

Right-hander Shane Baz (0-1, 4.30 ERA) will start for Tampa Bay, hoping to turn things around after a no-decision against the St. Louis Cardinals. Baz’s previous start against Houston resulted in a no-decision as well, with two runs allowed over 5 1/3 innings.

2025 Super Bowl LIX Odds

MLB Parlay Picks & Predictions

Final Score: Houston 4-2
The Pick: Houston -138 & Under 7½ (-110)
A $100 Parlay Bet will return $329

Click to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Top Sportsbooks

bovada logo
75% Welcome Bonus up to $750
betonline
50% Welcome Bonus Up to $1000
mybookie
100% Welcome Bonus up to $1,000
365betting
Weekly Promotions & Much More

More in MLB