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The Philadelphia Phillies will face off against the Houston Astros in an important MLB showdown. The Astros have won 70 games after defeating the Orioles in their last game. The Astros are competing for the playoffs and have a strong chance of qualifying while they dominate the AL West.
The Astros scored six runs and gave only three to the Orioles in their last game. The team's favorite Ronel Blanco will be sent to the mound to get some strikeouts against their opponent. Blanco has a strong 3.14 ERA with a 9-6 record. The Astros will still need to support their ace with some extra runs against the Phillies.
After the All-Star break, Philadelphia has struggled to maintain its lead. However, it seems to be getting back to its old form. In the last two games, the Phillies scored 22 runs and gave up only five, taking out the Royals with ease.
Hard-throwing Zack Wheeler will get the ball in Game 1 against the Astros. Wheeler's excellent performance has made him a leading pitcher for the team. The veteran has a strong 2.73 ERA with a 12-6 record. Wheeler's performance has helped Houston win several crucial games. Yet, the offense must kick in with some support.
Phillies vs. Astros baseball betting odds
Where to watch Phillies vs. Astros?
Game 1 can be watched on FS1, Space City Home Network and NBCSP. The online stream can be watched on Fubo TV and MLB TV. The first pitch will go out at 6:40 p.m. EDT.
Phillies vs. Astros prediction
The Astros are trailing their opponent by six-plus games with a 70-60 record. While they do have a strong pitcher on the mound, the chances of winning at Citizens Bank Park are pretty slim. The Phillies are one of the best teams in the MLB despite their slump.
Offensively, the Astros are No. 12 with 595 runs scored while the Phillies are No. 5 with 638 runs scored. The Astros are No. 9 with a 3.80 team ERA while their opponent is No. 4 with a 3.70 team ERA. With the odds in their favor, the Phillies are predicted to secure a win in Game 1.
Prediction: Philadelphia Phillies -1.5 (-165)
