TOM STRYKER’S FREE BASEBALL SELECTION SUNDAY, JUNE 19TH
#920 HOUSTON with Javier (-175) over Chicago with Kopech at 7:08 PM EST
In a bad mood off that embarrassing 7-0 home loss to the ChiSox, the ‘Stros will get after it under the ESPN lights on Sunday evening. The Astros still own a commanding 9.0-game lead over the Rangers in the AL West and they’ll do a number on the Pale Hose in this rematch.
Strong right-hander Cristian Javier will hit the hump for the home team. In 2022, No. 53 has appeared in 12 games for the Astros (eight starts) and been tapped for 18 earned runs and 40 hits in 50.2 innings. Javier struck out 63 and walked 19 on his way to a 3-3 record with a 3.20 ERA. Inside Minute Maid Park, Cristian has been at his best too. At home, Javier has surrendered only six earned runs and 17 hits in 27.1 frames. That shakes down to a 2-2 mark with a magnificent 1.98 ERA.
Young righty Michael Kopech will counter for the Pale Hose. In his last start against the Rangers, No. 34 was yanked after throwing just 13 pitches. Kopech pinched a preexisting cyst and was pulled with soreness in his right knee. White Sox manager Tony La Russa was satisfied with Michael’s bullpen during the week and gave him the green light to start this game. Overall, with 11 performances in the books this year, Kopech has been touched for only 11 earned runs and 24 hits in 51.2 frames. That adds up to a 2-2 mark with a powerful 1.92 ERA.
With both arms capable, the following team trends will provide the assist for this Best Bet. Houston has won 13 of its last 16 in the third game of a series, 84 of its last 121 when matched up against AL Central foes, and 30 of its last 42 priced as a favorite. On the other side of the stadium, Chicago has slipped in 19 of its last 26 as a guest in this series and 50 of its last 70 when priced as an underdog.
In what will likely be a great pitcher’s duel, the ‘Stros will rebound off their dismal performance at the plate yesterday and find a way to extend the margin here. Take Houston with Javier. Thanks and best of luck, Tom.
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