#916 ASTROS with Alexander (-136) over Orioles with Garcia at 7:10 PM EST
Following a 7-0 shutout loss to the Orioles in their previous matchup, the Astros will look to rebound in this rematch. Houston currently holds a half-game lead in the AL West over Seattle, making this contest significant for manager Joe Espada and his team.
Starting for Houston is right-hander Jason Alexander. In 2025, Alexander (No. 54) has made six appearances for the Astros (five starts), allowing nine earned runs and 25 hits over 31.2 innings. He has recorded 24 strikeouts and 13 walks, posting a 3-1 record with a 2.56 ERA. In his last two official outings versus the Yankees and Marlins, Alexander did not allow an earned run and gave up only four hits in 12.0 innings, resulting in a 2-0 record and a 0.00 ERA.
For Baltimore, right-hander Rico Garcia will open the game as part of a bullpen approach. Garcia (No. 50) has pitched for three teams this season (Orioles, Yankees, Mets) across 11 games—all in relief—conceding seven earned runs and 13 hits over 17.0 innings. He has 19 strikeouts and 4 walks, with a 0-0 record and a 3.71 ERA. Over his five-year career, Garcia has allowed 36 earned runs and 62 hits in 52.2 innings, reflecting a 1-2 record and a 6.15 ERA.
Technically speaking, Houston has secured victories in 116 of its last 203 games following a loss, 181 of its last 337 games as a favorite, 218 of its last 390 games without rest, and 172 of its last 314 encounters against non-division opponents. Conversely, Baltimore has been defeated in 36 of its last 62 road games, 40 of its last 69 night games, and 52 of its last 96 games without rest.
With an important three-game series against Detroit upcoming, this matchup presents an opportunity for the Astros to solidify their position at the top of the division. Take Houston with Alexander. Thanks and best of luck, Tom.
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