Astros vs. Phillies Prediction, Odds, Picks

We will bring you another betting prediction and tip as we continue coverage of this next interleague duel between the division leaders. The Houston Astros continue their three-game series and visit the Philadelphia Phillies. It's time to continue our MLB odds series with an Astros-Phillies prediction and pick.

Expected starters for Astros-Phillies

Justin Verlander (right-hander) Comparisons Aaron Nola (right-handed)

Justin Verlander (3-3) with an ERA of 3.92, a WHIP of 1.19, 57 K and 62.0 IP

Last start: 8/21 vs. BOS (L) – 5.0 IP, 2 ER, 6 K

2024 Road Splits: (3-1) with a 3.35 ERA, .230 OB, 42 K, 40.1 IP

Aaron Nola (11-6) with a 3.45 ERA, 1.18 WHIP, 147 K, 159.1 IP

Last start: 21.08. @ ATL (W) – 5.2 IP, 2 ER, 5 K

2024 Home Splits: (5-3) with a 3.12 ERA, .220 OBA, 78 K, 80.2 IP

Here are the MLB odds, courtesy of FanDuel.

MLB Odds: Astros-Phillies Odds

Houston Astros: +1.5 (-170)

Money line: +122

Philadelphia Phillies: -1.5 (+140)

Money line: -144

Over: 8.5 (-106)

Under: 8.5 (-114)

How to watch the Astros vs Phillies game

Time: 6:40 p.m. ET/ 3:40 p.m. PT

Television: TBS, Space City Home Network, NBC Sports Philadelphia, MLB.TV

Stream: fuboTV (Click here for a free trial)

Why the Astros will cover/win the spread

The Houston Astros enter this game as first place in the American League West, four games ahead of the second place Seattle Mariners. Their lead in the division has shrunk somewhat, as they have won just two of their last seven games. They were able to close out their series against Baltimore with a win, as Alex Bregman and Yainer both hit home runs. They lost the first game of this series 3-2, and were up 2-0 at halftime of the game. They lost the game in overtime, and even though the season is almost over, they need to win important games like this one to maintain their lead in the division.

The Astros are sending Justin Verlander to the mound for only the second time since returning from injury in June. In his first game back, he went five innings, allowed just two runs and had six strikeouts, so despite the result, it was an impressive performance in his return. If the Astros are serious about competing in the postseason, they will undoubtedly need Verlander healthy and at his best. While he is still working on getting back into shape, he is arguably their most important pitcher and his pivotal game during the postseason is something the Astros don't want to miss.

Why the Phillies will cover/win the spread

The Philadelphia Phillies are currently first in the National League East, leading the second-place Atlanta Braves by 6.5 games. They have maintained their position by winning their last three games in a row and winning the first meeting with the Astros. A single base hit by leadoff hitter Bryce Harper was enough to break the 2-2 tie and the Phillies now have the upper hand in their only series against the Astros this season. Both teams are very well matched and with both battling for their division title, this could be a possible preview of the World Series if both teams continue their trend.

Aaron Nola will start this game and has been Philly's top player for most of this season. He is 16th in the Major League with the best record and ranks 22nd in the league in both ERA and strikeouts. He certainly gives them the best chance to win this game as he has a winning record at home and a solid 3.12 ERA. His strikeout numbers have also been underwhelming while he has only allowed 12 home runs at home this season. With confidence still building from their last game, expect the Phillies to have the advantage heading into this second game of the season.

Final Astros-Phillies Prediction and Pick

Both teams are very evenly matched and if they can continue their success in the postseason, they should be able to make a splash on their respective sides of the standings. The Phillies are a little better at the moment and while the Astros were able to strike first in the last game, the persistence of the Philadelphia bats became undeniable as the game went on. With their first meeting going to overtime, it would not be a surprise to see another close game this time around.

While Justin Verlander is back in the starting lineup after returning from injury, we have to favor the consistency of Philadelphia's Aaron Nola as a pitcher in this game. Although Verlander is slowly returning to his former All-Star form, it's too early to expect any great performances from him. Aaron Nola, on the other hand, has been extremely consistent all season and his success at home should be promising at this point.

In our final prediction, we are tipping the Philadelphia Phillies to take their second win of this series and continue their hunt for the best result in the National League.

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Final Astros-Phillies Prediction and Pick: Philadelphia Phillies ML (-144)