Why the Astros on Friday at -112...with both teams coming into the series opener after an off-day as well as winners of three in a row, we will back the Astros in this playoff preview with Gerrit Cole on the bump. Cole has posted a respectable 4.32 era over his L16 IP against the above-average offenses of the Mariners, Athletics and Angels. In those three starts, Cole recorded 24 Ks on 7 BBs and 2 HRs. Looking into Cole's last start against the Angels, he did post a ridiculous 64% contact% and a 17% SwStr%. With his velocity numbers holding at season average or higher over his last few starts, Cole is trending in the right direction heading into this road start where he carries a 2.79 era. Red Sox lineup with a combined 111 ABs to match a .252 BA and 4 HRs against the big righty. Boston will hand the ball to David Price who had to exit his last start early due to a left wrist contusion. On the season, Price carries a 3.10 era at home, but does see his K/BB drop to 3.00, compared to 4.71 on the road. RHH have shown that they can get to Price with a .235 BA and 16 HRs over 127 IP and with a righty heavy lineup being penciled in for the Astros, they should be comfortable with a combined 174 ABs against to match a .241 BA and 7 HRs as well as an MLB leading .279 BA against LHP. Going to back this Astros pen who brings a 1.47 era over their L14 Days compared to the Red Sox 4.84 era over that same span. Astros currently taking 48% of the action with line movement from +104 to -112.
Play on the Astros at -112
Play on the Astros at -112
