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MLB Game Preview: Houston Astros (41-31) vs. Athletics (30-44)

The Houston Astros and Athletics face off in a divisional showdown at Sutter Health Park in West Sacramento, California. The Astros enter the game riding a five-game winning streak, while the Athletics look to extend their own four-game winning run.

Game Details

  • Date: Tuesday, June 17, 2025
  • Time: 10:05 PM ET / 7:05 PM PT
  • Venue: Sutter Health Park, West Sacramento, CA
  • TV Broadcast: MLB Network, Bally Sports Southwest, NBC Sports California

Houston Astros Outlook

The Astros (41-31) have been dominant, winning five straight games, including a 3-2 walk-off victory over Minnesota in their last outing. Jeremy Peña leads the team with a .320 batting average, while Jose Altuve has been heating up, batting .333 over his last five games with three doubles and two home runs.

Houston will send Jason Alexander (0-0, 18.00 ERA) to the mound. Alexander has struggled in relief appearances, allowing a .400 opponent batting average across four outings.

Top Performers:

  • Jeremy Peña – Batting .320, with nine home runs and 34 RBIs.
  • Jose Altuve.274 batting average, with 11 home runs and 19 walks.
  • Jake Meyers.295 batting average, riding a four-game hitting streak.

Athletics Outlook

The Athletics (30-44) have been red-hot, winning four straight games, including a 3-1 upset over Houston in Game 1 of the series. Jacob Wilson leads the team with a .362 batting average, while Brent Rooker has been a power threat, hitting 15 home runs.

The Athletics will counter with J.P. Sears (5-5, 5.08 ERA), who has 58 strikeouts in 14 starts but has struggled with command.

Top Performers:

  • Jacob Wilson – Batting .362, with eight home runs and 15 doubles.
  • Brent Rooker – Leads the team with 15 home runs and 42 RBIs.
  • Lawrence Butler.258 batting average, with 23 doubles and 10 home runs.

Key Matchups to Watch

  • Jeremy Peña vs. Athletics’ Pitching – Peña’s ability to get on base could be a game-changer.
  • Jason Alexander vs. Oakland’s Offense – Alexander’s struggles could give the Athletics an early advantage.
  • Brent Rooker vs. Astros’ Bullpen – Rooker’s power makes him a threat late in the game.

Houston enters as the favorite, but Oakland’s recent momentum suggests a competitive battle. Expect a high-scoring contest, with the Astros’ offensive firepower giving them the edge late.

Game Odds

Houston Astros                 – 121

Athletics                              11

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Monday, June 16, 2025

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