Tampa Bay Rays vs. Houston Astros: Preview, Predictions and Picks for August 4, 2024

Published on:
Aug 4, 2024 6:13 AM
The Tampa Bay Rays, fresh off Brandon Lowe's impressive 4-hit performance, look to take the series lead as they face the Houston Astros on Sunday at Minute Maid Park. The current series is tied 1-1, with the Rays aiming to capitalize on their momentum against the 57-53 Astros. First pitch is set for 2:10 PM on August 4, 2024.
Written by
Optimal Staff
Tampa Bay Rays
Houston Astros

Rays vs Astros starting pitchers

  • Spencer Arrighetti for Houston Astros
  • Hunter Bigge for Tampa Bay Rays

Rays vs Astros statistics

Stat Rays Astros
Hits 860 (26th) 981 (4th)
Batting Average .235 (23rd) .261 (3rd)
Runs Batted In 411 (28th) 484 (12th)
Runs 440 (28th) 506 (13th)
Home Runs 106 (26th) 124 (15th)
Walks 364 (9th) 291 (28th)
Stolen Bases 116 (4th) 67 (19th)
Strikeouts 998 (7th) 778 (28th)
Pitches 16648 (5th) 15128 (30th)

Houston Astros recent games

Game Date Opponent Result Score
8/3/24 vs Tampa Bay Rays L 6-1
8/2/24 vs Tampa Bay Rays W 3-2
7/31/24 vs Pittsburgh Pirates W 5-4
7/30/24 vs Pittsburgh Pirates L 6-2
7/29/24 vs Pittsburgh Pirates L 5-3

Tampa Bay Rays recent games

Game Date Opponent Result Score
8/3/24 @ Houston Astros W 6-1
8/2/24 @ Houston Astros L 3-2
7/31/24 vs Miami Marlins L 6-2
7/30/24 vs Miami Marlins W 9-3
7/28/24 vs Cincinnati Reds W 2-1

Rays vs Astros predictions

As the Tampa Bay Rays gear up to face the Houston Astros, all eyes will be on Josh Lowe following his impressive 4-hit game. Expectations are high for him to deliver another strong performance, potentially adding a couple of hits and an RBI, judging by his current momentum. Brandon Lowe should also be a key player to watch; his power-hitting ability might just see him launch one over the fences at Minute Maid Park. Yandy Diaz, who's been consistent with a .276 average, could very well be a pivotal player in getting those crucial on-base moments to set up scoring opportunities.

On the Houston Astros side, Jose Altuve remains a significant threat at the plate, consistently showing why he's a perennial all-star with a .304 batting average this season. Yordan Alvarez, leading the team with 20 home runs, poses a serious power threat every time he steps up to bat. Given his form, it wouldn't be surprising if he adds to his home run tally in this matchup. On the mound, Spencer Arrighetti's performance will be crucial; despite a challenging ERA of 5.58 this season, his ability to strike out opponents with 104 Ks could disrupt the Rays' batting lineup if he finds his rhythm early.

Considering the stats and the momentum coming into this game, it looks to be a closely contested battle. The Rays, riding the wave of Lowe's recent performance, have the offensive tools but will face a tough challenge against the Astros, who boast both batting depth and home-field advantage. If Arrighetti manages to control the game from the pitcher's mound, the Astros might just edge out a win in what promises to be an exciting game. So, if you're asking for a prediction, it leans slightly towards a Houston Astros victory in a tight contest. What do you think?

Houston Astros injuries

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

Tampa Bay Rays injuries

  • Richard Lovelady (RP): 15-Day-IL
  • Ryan Pepiot (SP): 15-Day-IL
  • Jacob Waguespack (RP): 60-Day-IL
  • Drew Rasmussen (SP): 60-Day-IL
  • Richie Palacios (RF): 10-Day-IL

Rays vs Astros game info

Venue Minute Maid Park
Location Houston, Texas
First pitch Sun 2:10 PM
TV Space City Home Network
Temperature 92°
Chance of Rain 47%

Tampa Bay Rays vs. Houston Astros Betting Odds

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