Houston Astros vs. Tampa Bay Rays: Preview, Predictions and Picks for August 12, 2024

Published on:
Aug 12, 2024 6:11 AM
The Houston Astros, riding a hot streak, travel to Tropicana Field to face the Tampa Bay Rays on Monday, August 12, 2024, at 6:50 PM. The Astros, currently seated atop the AL West with a 62-55 record, aim to extend their win streak against the Rays, who hold a slight 2-1 lead in their regular season series.
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Optimal Staff
Houston Astros
Tampa Bay Rays

Astros vs Rays starting pitchers

  • Taj Bradley for Tampa Bay Rays
  • Framber Valdez for Houston Astros

Astros vs Rays statistics

Stat Astros Rays
Hits 1051 (5th) 910 (27th)
Batting Average .262 (2nd) .234 (25th)
Runs Batted In 518 (12th) 430 (28th)
Runs 542 (Tied-12th) 460 (28th)
Home Runs 137 (Tied-11th) 110 (26th)
Walks 318 (27th) 385 (9th)
Stolen Bases 69 (Tied-19th) 130 (4th)
Strikeouts 831 (28th) 1060 (8th)
Pitches 16150 (30th) 17624 (8th)

Tampa Bay Rays recent games

Game Date Opponent Result Score
8/11/24 vs Baltimore Orioles W 2-1
8/10/24 vs Baltimore Orioles L 7-5
8/9/24 vs Baltimore Orioles L 4-1
8/8/24 @ St. Louis Cardinals W 6-4
8/7/24 @ St. Louis Cardinals L 5-2

Houston Astros recent games

Game Date Opponent Result Score
8/11/24 @ Boston Red Sox W 10-2
8/10/24 @ Boston Red Sox W 5-4
8/9/24 @ Boston Red Sox W 8-4
8/7/24 @ Texas Rangers W 6-4
8/6/24 @ Texas Rangers W 4-2

Astros vs Rays predictions

Heading into the showdown at Tropicana Field, several Houston Astros players are primed to make significant impacts. Keep an eye on Jose Altuve, who's poised to be a nuisance at the plate, with potential to notch over a run and likely add to his hit tally in the upcoming matchup. Yordan Alvarez also stands out with his robust slugging, expected to contribute heartily to the RBI and home run columns, possibly altering the game's momentum at crucial junctures. Additionally, Framber Valdez, taking the mound for the Astros, looks set to deliver a strong performance potentially stifling the Rays' hitters with his knack for strikeouts and maintaining a firm command over his ERA.

On the flip side, the Tampa Bay Rays have their arsenal prepped as well. Yandy Diaz could be a key player, promising an above-average batting performance which might include roping a few critical hits to keep the innings moving. Another ray of hope comes from Jose Siri, who might not only add depth with a few hits but could also clear the fences, driving in crucial runs. The mound will feature Taj Bradley, who's anticipated to harness his ability to limit runs and keep his WHIP tight, potentially making life difficult for the Astros' batters.

When it's all said and done, predicting the victor in this clash depends heavily on the performance of the starting pitchers and key hitters. However, the Houston Astros seem to have a slight edge, particularly with their strong batting lineup and Framber Valdez's consistent pitching this season. While the Rays have the advantage of playing on their home turf, the Astros' momentum and strategic advantages might just tilt the scales in their favor in what promises to be a gripping encounter.

Tampa Bay Rays injuries

  • Ryan Pepiot (SP): 15-Day-IL
  • Jacob Waguespack (RP): 60-Day-IL
  • Richie Palacios (2B): 10-Day-IL
  • Shane McClanahan (SP): 60-Day-IL

Houston Astros injuries

  • Jayden Murray (SP): Day-To-Day
  • Justin Verlander (SP): 15-Day-IL
  • Jairo Solis (SP): Day-To-Day
  • Kyle Tucker (RF): 60-Day-IL
  • Luis Garcia (SP): 60-Day-IL

Astros vs Rays game info

Venue Tropicana Field
Location St. Petersburg, Florida
First pitch Mon 6:50 PM
Temperature 87°
Chance of Rain 34%

Houston Astros vs. Tampa Bay Rays Betting Odds

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