MLB Game Preview: Houston Astros (16-14) vs. Chicago White Sox (8-23)

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Chicago White Sox logo

The Houston Astros and Chicago White Sox are set to open a three-game series on May 2, 2025, at Guaranteed Rate Field in Chicago, Illinois. First pitch is scheduled for 6:40 p.m. CT, with the game broadcast live on Space City Home Network and 790 AM (Spanish radio).

Starting Pitchers

Houston Astros – Framber Valdez (1-3, 4.00 ERA)

Valdez has had an up-and-down season but is coming off a strong outing against Kansas City, where he pitched eight innings, allowing just two earned runs on three hits. He has a 7.7 K/9 rate and has held opponents to a .229 batting average.

Chicago White Sox – Jonathan Cannon (1-3, 4.50 ERA)

Cannon has struggled with command, allowing multiple walks in three of his last five starts. He has a 1.35 WHIP and has given up four home runs in 30 innings pitched.

Team Form and Key Players

Houston Astros

Houston has been solid offensively, ranking 20th in MLB in batting average (.236) and 25th in home runs (25).

Key Players:

  • Jose Altuve – Batting .278 with four home runs and 14 RBIs.
  • Jeremy Peña – On a five-game hitting streak, batting .450 over that span.
  • Christian Walker – Has three home runs in his last 10 games.

Chicago White Sox

Chicago has struggled at the plate, ranking 29th in MLB in batting average (.213) and 30th in slugging percentage (.325).

Key Players:

  • Luis Robert Jr. – Leads the team with two home runs and 10 RBIs.
  • Miguel Vargas – Has six doubles and two home runs this season.

Key Matchups and Strategies

  1. Valdez vs. White Sox’s Offense – Chicago ranks last in MLB in slugging percentage, making Valdez’s ability to control the game crucial.
  2. Cannon vs. Astros’ Power Hitters – Houston’s lineup features multiple right-handed power hitters, including Peña and Walker, who could challenge Cannon.
  3. Bullpen Battle – Houston’s bullpen has been strong in late-game situations, while Chicago’s relief pitching has struggled.
  4. Home vs. Away Performance – Chicago has a 5-10 home record, while Houston has been 5-7 on the road, setting up an intriguing battle.

Game Odds

Houston Astros                 – 250

Chicago White Sox          7.5

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Thursday, May 1, 2025