Oakland Athletics vs. Houston Astros 9/13/23 MLB Prediction

Oakland Athletics (45-99) vs. Houston Astros (82-63)

Oakland Athletics vs. Houston Astros 9/13/23 – As we near the final stretch of the 2023 MLB season, the Oakland Athletics and Houston Astros stand in stark contrast–both physically and figuratively. While A’s are struggling mightily with an atrocious 45-99 record that leaves them languishing at the bottom of their division, conversely Astros remain competitive, posting an 82-63 mark that keeps them within striking distance of playoff contention. These teams will meet on September 13th at 7:10 PM ET at Minute Maid Park; watch it all live via SportsNet SW.

Oakland Athletics have experienced a tough year. Boasting a batting average of just 0.225 and an ERA that hovers around 5.57, their struggles are evident: 531 runs have been scored so far – one of the lowest totals in baseball. Their road play and against Astros opponents have not boded well for them in particular, yet Paul Blackburn, their starter tonight, remains an inspirational figure that gives them hope that this matchup might go their way.

Houston Astros are enjoying a solid year. Their impressive 0.260 batting average and 3.97 ERA have them making up ground against opponents this season, scoring over 750 runs this year alone despite some recent home hiccups; they’ve proven particularly dominant against Athletics, which should give them confidence going into this matchup. Hunter Brown will start for them today; although his stats don’t stand out too dramatically, yet have shown promise. If you’re looking for some insights and recommendations on their upcoming games, don’t forget to check out some free accurate MLB picks.

Oakland Athletics vs. Houston Astros Game Info

Paul Blackburn (4-4, 3.88 ERA) vs. Hunter Brown (10-11, 4.78 ERA)

The Athletics will start Paul Blackburn, who is 4-4 with a 3.88 ERA and 1.51 WHIP in 92.2 innings pitched. Blackburn has given up 105 hits, 95 strikeouts, and 35 walks. While his WHIP indicates control issues, his ERA shows he can get himself out of tight spots. On the other side, Houston’s Hunter Brown has a 10-11 record with a higher ERA of 4.78 but a better WHIP of 1.37 in 141.1 innings. Brown has accumulated 145 hits, 162 strikeouts, and 49 walks this season.

Both pitchers have their vulnerabilities, but Brown has a higher strikeout rate, suggesting he could capitalize on Oakland’s weaker offense. However, Blackburn’s lower ERA suggests he’s more efficient at limiting damage. It’s a match-up that leans in favor of the Astros, given their stronger offense and home-field advantage.

MLB Odds/Point Spread: Houston Astros -270, Total Odds: 9

The odds heavily favor the Astros, with a Moneyline of -270 and a spread of -1.5 at -135. The Athletics are true underdogs with a Moneyline of +222 and a spread of +1.5 at +110. Given the drastic disparities in performance and record, these odds are justified. While the A’s offer tempting odds for an upset, their form doesn’t warrant such a bet. The Astros should comfortably cover the -1.5 spread, especially considering their domination in recent matchups against Oakland.

Oakland Athletics Betting Trends 

The Athletics have struggled significantly against the Astros, going 3-15 SU in their last 18 games against Houston. They’re also 6-14 SU in their last 20 road games and a dismal 2-9 SU when playing on the road against Houston. The total has generally gone UNDER in games involving the Athletics, particularly against divisional rivals. These trends indicate a bleak outlook for Oakland and make a case against betting in their favor.

Houston Astros Betting Trends

The Astros have been strong recently, with a 5-2 SU in their last 7 games. Despite a recent slump at home, they have dominated the Athletics, especially at Minute Maid Park with a 9-2 SU record in their last 11 home games against Oakland. The total has gone OVER in 6 of their last 7 games, contrasting with the Athletics’ UNDER trends. This leans towards the possibility of a high-scoring game, at least from the Astros’ end.

Oakland Athletics vs. Houston Astros 9/13/23 Betting Picks

Considering all factors—trends, team stats, and starting pitchers—it’s hard to see past a comfortable Astros win. While Blackburn has been decent, he’s up against a potent Houston offense and a pitcher with a higher strikeout potential. The Astros’ recent form and historical dominance over the Athletics make them a safe pick here. Therefore, the smart money would be on the Astros to cover the -1.5 spread and a lean towards the OVER given Houston’s recent high-scoring games. For more insights and potential betting opportunities, you can also explore some free sports picks today.