Milwaukee Brewers vs. Houston Astros: Preview, Predictions and Picks for May 18, 2024

Published on:
May 18, 2024 7:37 AM
The Houston Astros look to build on their series lead as they host the Milwaukee Brewers at Minute Maid Park on Saturday, May 18 at 7:10 PM. The Astros, currently 20-25 on the season, will aim to capitalize on their 12-12 home record against the Brewers, who bring a 26-18 overall record and 14-9 road record into the matchup.
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Milwaukee Brewers
Houston Astros

Brewers vs Astros starting pitchers

  • Justin Verlander for Houston Astros
  • Bryse Wilson for Milwaukee Brewers

Brewers vs Astros game preview

In the forthcoming matchup between the Milwaukee Brewers and the Houston Astros, fans can look forward to a pitching duel that features Bryse Wilson for the Brewers against Justin Verlander for the Astros. Wilson brings to the mound an impressive ERA of 2.65 and a WHIP of 1.12 over 34 innings pitched, showcasing formidability and efficiency this season. On the other side, veteran ace Verlander, with an ERA of 3.38 and WHIP of 1.19 over approximately 29 full innings, continues to be a key player for the Astros, bringing tremendous experience and a knack for strikeout capabilities with 23 Ks so far.

Analyzing the Milwaukee Brewers, the team has shown robust offensive capabilities this season, ranking high in several offensive categories. Notably, the Brewers sit 3rd in both runs scored and bases stolen, highlighting their aggressive and strategic base running. Their overall BA of .259 demonstrates a strong plate discipline, facilitated by key players like William Contreras, who leads with an impressive .353 batting average and 34 RBIs. However, the recent placement of Rhys Hoskins on the 10-day IL could impact their power-hitting, given his contribution of 9 home runs so far.

On the flip side, the Houston Astros have demonstrated a strong batting lineup, notably securing the 1st position in team batting average at an outstanding .262. Despite ranking 30th in strikeouts, their ability to make contact is exemplified by maintaining the 2nd highest number of hits at 406. Key contributions come from Kyle Tucker, who not only leads the team with 13 home runs but also with 29 RBIs, supported by Jeremy Pena's impressive .326 batting average. The Astros show a middle-of-the-pack performance in running bases and drawing walks, indicative of a more cautious approach at the plate that will likely pivot on strategic hitting against the Brewers' formidable pitching.

Houston Astros injuries

  • Jayden Murray (SP): Day-To-Day
  • Ryan Pressly (RP): Day-To-Day
  • Chas McCormick (LF): 10-Day-IL
  • Brice Matthews (SS): Day-To-Day
  • Miguel Palma (C): Day-To-Day

Milwaukee Brewers injuries

  • Christian Arroyo (2B): Day-To-Day
  • Logan Blake Henderson (SP): Day-To-Day
  • Joey Wiemer (LF): 10-Day-IL
  • Brian Navarreto (C): Day-To-Day
  • Rhys Hoskins (1B): 10-Day-IL

Brewers vs Astros predictions

Here we go - the Brew Crew rolling into Houston to take on the Astros. I'm thinking Willy Adames is gonna have a big game, maybe 2-3 RBIs and a stolen base. He's been hitting well lately, and I think he'll take advantage of the Astros' pitching. And don't sleep on Christian Yelich, he's due for a breakout game - I'm projecting 2-4 with a home run. If those two guys get going, the Brewers' offense could be tough to stop.

On the flip side, I think Jose Altuve is gonna give the Brewers' pitching fits. He's just so darn pesky, always seems to find a way to get on base. I've got him down for 2-3 hits and a run scored. And Yordan Alvarez is a monster - I think he's gonna go deep tonight. He's been mashing the ball lately, and Minute Maid Park is a great place for a power hitter like him to thrive. If the Astros can get those two guys going, they'll be tough to beat.

So, who's gonna take this one? I think the Astros' pitching is gonna be the difference maker. Justin Verlander is still a force to be reckoned with, and I think he'll shut down the Brewers' offense. I've got the Astros winning this one 5-3, with Verlander going 7 strong innings and Alvarez providing the big blow. Buckle up, folks - this one's gonna be a fun one!

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