September 1 08:10 MLB Houston : Kansas City MLB Analysis
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**◈ Houston**
Yusei Kikuchi (6 wins, 9 losses, 4.39 ERA) is aiming for his 7th win of the season. On the 26th, he showed a performance of 5.2 innings, allowing 2 hits and 3 runs in an away game against Baltimore. Despite the pitching content, the result has been disappointing. A performance of 6 innings with 2 runs or fewer at home can be expected, and most importantly, the team's performance improves when he takes the mound, which is encouraging. In the previous game, Houston's lineup only managed to score 3 points, including a solo home run from Ben Gamel, against Kansas City's pitching staff. They wasted numerous chances against Seth Lugo, which contributed to the difficulty of the game. The 0-for-8 with runners in scoring position is a point for reflection. The bullpen, which allowed a game-tying two-run home run in the top of the 9th after a no-hit-no-run outing, is not showing the strength it had in previous years.
**◈ Kansas City**
Cole Ragans (10 wins, 8 losses, 3.28 ERA) is looking for his 11th win of the season. On the 27th, he had a poor outing in an away game against Cleveland, allowing 2 runs over 4 innings, and he has been showing signs of struggle in the last two games. Although he is a pitcher with strengths in away games, his biggest weakness is that he falls apart when facing teams from the Western division, regardless of whether the games are home or away. In the previous game, Kansas City's lineup was thoroughly shut down by Framber Valdez, and their only score was a 2-run home run from Paul DeJong in the 9th inning, highlighting their lack of offensive production. The batting slump in this series has reached a serious level. The bullpen, which allowed 2 runs over 2 innings, has reinforced the understanding that James MacArthur should not pitch in the 9th inning.
**◈ Comment**
This series has maintained a closely contested flow throughout the games. Although Kikuchi has changed since his time in Houston, Kansas City has strengths against left-handed pitchers, and Ragans tends to falter against teams from the Western division. This game is also likely to be decided by the bullpen, and Houston has had the upper hand in the bullpen throughout this series, which will play a crucial role in the outcome. The Houston Astros, with momentum on their side, are closer to victory.
**◈ Suggested Betting**
[[Win/Loss]]: Houston Win
[[Handicap]]: +1.5 Kansas City Win
[[U/O]]: 7.5 Over