Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the MLB regular season match.
The Oakland Athletics have a rare chance to secure a shutout series victory. This season, the Athletics have achieved this feat only twice. However, it's easier said than done, as they have their ace pitcher Framber Valdez scheduled to start.
Houston Astros
Framber Valdez is entering the final stretch of the regular season in excellent form. The left-handed pitcher has recorded 9 wins and 1 loss in his last 13 games with a 2.15 ERA during this span. The Astros have won 12 of these games, including a blowout 8:0 win over the Arizona Diamondbacks. In that game, Valdez was outstanding: seven strikeouts, seven scoreless innings, and only two hits allowed.
Oakland Athletics
On the other hand, the Oakland Athletics will start Mitch Spence (7-9, 4.42 ERA). The right-handed pitcher hasn't secured a win in seven consecutive starts, making a victory over the Astros highly unlikely. This year, the Athletics have been on the brink of a shutout series victory six times but have lost in the final game each time.
Houston Astros — Oakland Athletics
The Houston Astros have a massive advantage in the starting pitcher position. The Oakland Athletics will have to perform exceptionally to generate any offence against Valdez. We are betting on hosts to win.
