Both sides look to steal a series win in the third installment between the Toronto Blue Jays and Houston Astros.
The pregame narrative: The Blue Jays held on for a 7-6 victory in yesterday's outing but I'm expecting less offence for Toronto in the final game of this series resulting in an Astros win.
Check out the best Blue Jays picks vs. the Astros on July 3.
Blue Jays picks vs. Astros
Go to full Blue Jays/Astros MLB betting markets.
Best bet: Astros moneyline (-108)
Last time Ronel Blanco started against the Blue Jays, he threw a no-hitter which kickstarted Toronto's offensive downswing that seemingly lasted months.
Although the offence has started producing again, this team does not hit Blanco well.
Vladimir Guererro Jr. has just one hit in seven at-bats (.143 BA). The current roster as a whole, has just two hits in 38 plate appearances.
It's not like Blanco only plays well against the Jays. The 30-year-old is in the midst of a career-best season, boasting an 8-3 record with a 2.49 ERA and 1.01 WHIP.
Offence could be tough to come by for the teetering Blue Jays offence.
Key stat: The Blue Jays have won just one of their last six series.
Quick pick
Astros over 4.5 runs (+112): Yusei Kikuchi has his hands full with the Astros' offence.
The Blue Jays starter began the season well but has taken a step back, allowing 13 earned runs across his last three starts.
On top of that, this Houston squad rakes against the Japanese native.
Overall, they are 27-for-91 (.296 BA) against Kikuchi, with eight of those hits leaving the park for a home run.
Let us not forget the downright terrible play from Toronto's bullpen as well. It ranks 28th in ERA in the MLB (4.70) and has seen multiple injuries thin out the nightly options.
Picks made at 10:42 a.m. on 07/03/24.
