Game Overview
Both teams enter this matchup on hot streaks, with the Rays winning seven of their last eight games and the Astros securing four consecutive victories. Tampa Bay recently shut out the Minnesota Twins 5-0, while Houston completed a two-game sweep over the Athletics with a 5-3 win.
Starting Pitchers
| Team | Pitcher | Record | ERA | WHIP | Strikeouts |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rays | Shane Baz (RHP) | 4-3 | 4.94 | 1.39 | 8.6 K/9 |
| Astros | Ryan Gusto (RHP) | 3-2 | 4.58 | 1.53 | 9.7 K/9 |
Baz has struggled with consistency, allowing 16 earned runs over his last four starts, but he showed promise in his last outing, giving up just one run in 5 2/3 innings. Gusto, a rookie right-hander, has been solid but has yet to exceed five innings in a start, meaning Houston’s bullpen could play a crucial role.
Team Comparisons
| Category | Rays | Astros |
|---|---|---|
| Record | 28-27 | 30-25 |
| Runs Per Game | 4.3 | 4.6 |
| Batting Average | .245 | .257 |
| Home Runs | 51 | 53 |
| ERA | 3.70 | 3.43 |
| Bullpen ERA | 3.55 | 3.44 |
Tampa Bay has been strong on the mound, ranking top 10 in team ERA (3.70), while Houston has relied on power hitting, ranking 12th in home runs (53).
Key Players to Watch
Tampa Bay Rays
- Junior Caminero (INF) – Hit a two-run homer in the Rays’ last game, heating up offensively.
- Jonathan Aranda (INF) – Scored twice against Minnesota, providing consistent production.
- Brandon Lowe (2B) – Leads the team with 11 home runs, a key power hitter.
Houston Astros
- Jeremy Peña (SS) – Batting .297 with seven home runs, thriving at home with a .342 average.
- Victor Caratini (C) – Delivered a two-run single in Houston’s last win.
- Zach Dezenzo (DH) – Hit a solo homer in the Astros’ victory over Oakland.
Matchup Breakdown
- Rays’ Pitching vs. Astros’ Offense – Tampa Bay has been strong on the mound, but Houston’s power hitters could exploit Baz’s struggles.
- Astros’ Home Dominance vs. Rays’ Road Performance – Houston is 20-10 at home, while Tampa Bay has been solid on the road.
- Bullpen Battle – Both teams have strong relief pitching, making late-game execution crucial.
Game Odds
Tampa Bay Rays 8
Houston Astros – 112
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Wednesday, May 28, 2025
