Houston Astros vs Philadelphia Phillies Prediction: Astros Looking Determined to Make Most of the Home Advantage

The Astros and Phillies are geared up for Game 1 at Minute Maid Park. Houston had the top seed in the American League and has already made it to the Fall Classic four times in the last six seasons. The Astros are undefeated (7-0) in this postseason with manager Dusty Baker attempting to win the World Series ring that has evaded him in 11 previous postseason appearances and two prior visits to the Fall Classic.

The Astros are the clear favourites in this series. That's because Houston beat Philly by 19 games overall and by 157 runs in run differential during the regular season. It's true that the Phillies had a more difficult schedule than their opponents on average, but it doesn't close the gaps noted above. The Astros also arrive better rested as they had ample of time to prepare for the game and get themselves accustomed to the playing conditions.

Houston Astros - Playing with the Evergreen Home Advantage (WWWWW)

Going in the contest, Houston Astros is coming off a consecutive wins against Mariners and Yankees. Houston Astros will look to take command of the final matchups from the Game 1 and stay unbeaten at home. In Game 1, Justin Verlander will start for the Astros, but with a powerful bullpen that has had ample time to rest, he will need to be faultless to record 18 outs. Prior to facing the Mariners in game one of the series, Verlander had to wait a long time. The Mariners then pounded him for 10 hits and six runs over four innings. He then had an outstanding performance against the Yankees, but he only managed to complete 18 outs and required 103 pitches. Verlander will need to perform at his peak in order to hit the Over 17.5 outs because the Astros have the finest bullpen in the season. With 2.80 ERA and 10.45 strikeouts from nine innings, Astro’s bullpen will look determined to wipe out the opposition.

Philadelphia Phillies - Can Bryce Harper Lead the Way for His Team? (WWWLW)

Going in the game, Philadelphia Phillies is coming off consecutive wins against San Diego Padres. With 2 RBI’s in the previous game and a prolific record, Philadelphia Phillies can certainly upset the opposition. Philadelphia Phillies have 16 home runs and 23 doubles in 11 playoff games, which is qutie motivating for the entire team. Philadelphia Phillies have determined left-handers who can be on top of their game to counter Astro’s bullpen.

Expert Betting Tips

For the World Series Final opener, I will be backing the home side to win and score at least 5 or more RBIs. The game total is expected to stay under 10 and Astros to dominate the game. 

• Houston Astros to Win for 1.57
• Total Over 6.5 for 1.80
• Team Houston Astros To Win By 4 Or More Runs for 4.3