Series Preview (45 of 52): Astros Visit Cincinnati (x3)

A Look at the Astros and Reds Matchup

Matchup Overview

The Houston Astros, winners of the 2022 World Series, will take on the Cincinnati Reds in a three-game series at Great American Ball Park starting Monday, August 28.

The Astros are currently the frontrunners in the AL West, while the Reds are near the bottom of the NL Central.

Astros Outlook

The Astros enter the series with a 74-48 record, tied for the second-best in the American League.

Houston's offense is led by Yordan Alvarez, who has 31 home runs and 77 RBIs.

Their pitching staff is headlined by Justin Verlander, who has a 3.15 ERA and 10.2 strikeouts per nine innings.

Reds Outlook

The Reds are 53-69, last in the NL Central.

Cincinnati's offense is led by Brandon Drury, who has 20 home runs and 58 RBIs.

Their pitching staff is led by Hunter Greene, who has a 5.80 ERA and 9.3 strikeouts per nine innings.

Season Series

The Astros and Reds have not played each other yet in 2023.

Houston won four of the six meetings between the teams in 2022.

Key Stats

• The Astros are 37-24 on the road this season.
• The Reds are 28-33 at home this season.
• The Astros have won 10 of their last 13 games.
• The Reds have lost six of their last 10 games.

Prediction

The Astros are the clear favorites to win this series.

Houston has a better record, a more talented roster, and more experience in big games.