MLB

Astros vs Pirates

Underdog bats ready to pillage PNC Park profits

Houston Astros

Astros (32-27) VS Pirates (22-38)

03 Jun 2025 | 6:40 PM ET | PNC Park, Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh Pirates
Moneyline Pick - Houston Astros (+122): B+

The Houston Astros, currently enjoying a 7-3 run in their last ten games, head into Pittsburgh to face a Pirates team playing .500 ball in their last ten and have a bullpen hampered by injuries, including the absence of one of their veteran relievers. Despite setbacks in their starting rotation, the Astros are set to start a right-handed pitcher who has previously faced the Pirates with mixed results. The Pirates, on the other hand, have struggled offensively against left-handed pitching, ranking among the teams with the highest strikeout rates in such matchups this season  Houston's lineup has been productive lately, with several players hitting above .330 over the past two weeks, suggesting they could challenge Pittsburgh's right-hander.

Considering the Astros' recent momentum and the Pirates' ongoing struggles, backing Houston at plus-money odds seems like a reasonable play. While it's not a guaranteed outcome, the combination of the Astros' offensive form and the Pirates' bullpen issues provides a solid basis for this wager. It's a bet worth considering, especially given the current dynamics between the two teams

Odds and availability are subject to change. This bet was made at 03/06/2025 09:41

Over/Under Pick - Under 7.5 Runs, (-110): B

The Houston Astros, currently on a good run of form, face the Pittsburgh Pirates, who have had a slight uptick in form to a 5-5 run in their last ten. The Pirates' offense is hindered by injuries, and their lineup has been less effective against left-handed pitching. Houston's starting pitcher, a right-hander, has had mixed results against Pittsburgh in the past. Conversely, the Pirates' starter has shown improvement recently, posting a 1.91 ERA in May. Both teams had a rest day prior to this game, ensuring fresh bullpens.

Considering the current form of both teams and the pitching matchups, the total runs for this game are set at 8.5. Given the Pirates' offensive struggles and the potential for strong pitching performances, betting on the under seems reasonable. It's a cautious play, but the conditions suggest a lower-scoring game is likely.

Odds and availability are subject to change. This bet was made at 03/06/2025 09:41

Spread Pick - Houston Astros, +1.5 (-178): B-

The Houston Astros continue their strong form winning seven of their last ten games, while the Pittsburgh Pirates come in winning five of their last ten. Even with a few injuries on both sides, Houston's deeper and more consistent lineup gives them a notable edge. The Pirates will turn to a right-handed starter with undeniable raw talent, but relatively limited experience that may be challenged by an Astros offense performing at a steady pace. On the other side, Pittsburgh’s offensive depth is compromised due to several key injuries, forcing heavier reliance on a small group of available hitters.

With Houston's proven ability to thrive in tight contests—they've gone 14-7 in one-run games this season—the run line at +1.5 offers a favorable safety net, even if Pittsburgh manages a narrow win. The Astros' combination of lineup depth, strong recent form, and pitching stability makes the run line a smart play here. It’s not a home run bet, but with a B- grade, it offers a decent balance of risk and payout given the current state of both teams.

Odds and availability are subject to change. This bet was made at 03/06/2025 09:42

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