Seattle Mariners vs. Houston Astros: Preview, Predictions and Picks for May 3, 2024 8:10 PM

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May 3, 2024 6:28 AM

On May 3, 2024, the Seattle Mariners (17-14) head to Minute Maid Park to take on the struggling Houston Astros (11-20) at 8:10 PM. With the Astros struggling at home (6-10), the Mariners, who boast a respectable 6-6 road record, have a prime opportunity to snatch a win on the road. Under the warm Texas skies (84°F with no precipitation), expect a lively matchup between these American League foes.

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Seattle Mariners vs Houston Astros Probable Pitchers

For the upcoming Seattle Mariners vs Houston Astros game, the probable starting pitcher for the Mariners is George Kirby, who brings a 3-2 record and a 4.18 ERA to the mound. With 38 strikeouts and a WHIP of 1.11, Kirby looks to contain the Astros' potent offense and secure a vital win for Seattle.

Ronel Blanco, the probable starting pitcher for the Houston Astros, brings a stellar 1.65 ERA and 0.92 WHIP to the mound as the Astros take on the Seattle Mariners. With 30 strikeouts and only 2 home runs allowed in 32 full innings pitched, Blanco is poised to lead the Astros to a strong outing against their American League West rivals.

Seattle Mariners Analysis

As the Mariners prepare to face the Astros, their offense will need to find a way to overcome their struggles at the plate. With a team batting average of just .219, Seattle's lineup has struggled to string together hits, ranking 27th in the league in that department. However, they do have some bright spots, such as Julio Rodriguez's .270 average and Cal Raleigh's six homers, which could provide some spark. Meanwhile, Mitch Haniger's 18 RBIs will be crucial in driving in runs against a stout Astros pitching staff. If the Mariners can find a way to capitalize on their limited scoring opportunities, they may be able to hang with the Astros, but it'll be a tough task against one of the league's top teams.

Houston Astros Analysis

The Houston Astros head into their matchup against the Seattle Mariners boasting a potent offense that could prove troublesome for Seattle's pitching staff. Led by Jose Altuve's impressive .352 batting average and Kyle Tucker's power surge, which includes 8 home runs and 21 runs batted in, the Astros' lineup is capable of erupting at any moment. Their 2nd-ranked 287 hits and 37 home runs, which is tied for 6th in the league, suggest that they can capitalize on any mistake made by the Mariners' pitching staff. Meanwhile, their 2nd-ranked 230 runners left on base after a plate appearance indicates that they're consistently putting men on base, setting themselves up for scoring opportunities. If the Mariners' pitching staff isn't sharp, the Astros' offense could be poised for a big day.

Seattle Mariners vs Houston Astros Injuries

Houston Astros

Zach Dezenzo (3B): Day-To-Day
Jairo Solis (SP): Day-To-Day
Forrest Whitley (RP): Day-To-Day
Jayden Murray (SP): Day-To-Day
Dixon Machado (SS): Day-To-Day

Seattle Mariners

Bryan Woo (SP): 15-Day-IL
Eduard Bazardo (RP): 15-Day-IL
J.P. Crawford (SS): 10-Day-IL
Gregory Santos (RP): 60-Day-IL
Matt Brash (RP): 15-Day-IL

Seattle Mariners vs Houston Astros Betting Odds

The Houston Astros are slight favorites to win, currently listed at -120, with the over/under set at 7.5, indicating a moderately scoring contest. The odds have held steady since opening, with the Astros remaining a slight favorite in the Mariners matchup.

You can find real-time odds here powered by the Optimal app.

Seattle Mariners vs Houston Astros Prediction

I'm predicting a thrilling matchup where the Astros' pitching staff will finally get the best of the Mariners' bats, and Houston will take it 4-2 - but only because the Mariners' closer will accidentally lock himself in the dugout bathroom during the 8th inning.