The Houston Astros and the Minnesota Twins are set to face off in Game 3 of their American League Wild Card series on October 10th. With the series tied at 1-1, both teams will be looking to secure a crucial victory and advance to the next round of the playoffs. In this article, we will take a look at some predictions, player props, and picks for this highly anticipated matchup.
The Astros, who finished the regular season with a record of 29-31, have shown resilience in the playoffs so far. After dropping Game 1 to the Twins, they bounced back with a dominant 3-1 victory in Game 2. Their pitching staff has been impressive, led by ace Zack Greinke, who is expected to start Game 3. Greinke has a wealth of postseason experience and has proven to be a reliable starter for the Astros. Look for him to deliver another strong performance and keep the Twins’ offense in check.
On the other side, the Twins will be looking to regain their momentum after a disappointing loss in Game 2. They had a strong regular season, finishing with a record of 36-24, and possess a potent lineup that can do damage at any given moment. Players like Nelson Cruz, Miguel Sano, and Byron Buxton have the ability to change the game with their power and speed. The Twins will need their offense to come alive in Game 3 if they want to secure a victory and advance to the next round.
When it comes to player props, keep an eye on Jose Altuve for the Astros. Altuve has been a key contributor for Houston throughout the playoffs and is known for his clutch performances. He has the ability to hit for power and average, making him a threat at the plate. Look for Altuve to make an impact in Game 3 and potentially hit a home run or drive in some crucial runs.
For the Twins, watch out for starting pitcher Kenta Maeda. Maeda has been outstanding this season, posting a 6-1 record with a 2.70 ERA. He has the ability to dominate opposing lineups with his arsenal of pitches and pinpoint control. If Maeda can deliver a strong outing in Game 3, it will greatly increase the Twins’ chances of coming out on top.
In terms of picks, this game is a tough one to call. Both teams have shown their strengths and weaknesses throughout the series, making it a highly competitive matchup. However, given the Astros’ recent success and the experience of their pitching staff, they may have the slight edge in Game 3. Look for Houston to come out on top in a close contest and advance to the next round of the playoffs.
Overall, Game 3 between the Houston Astros and the Minnesota Twins promises to be an exciting and closely contested matchup. With both teams fighting for their postseason lives, expect a high level of intensity and competitiveness. Keep an eye on key players like Jose Altuve and Kenta Maeda, as they could play pivotal roles in determining the outcome of the game. Regardless of the result, fans can expect a thrilling game of baseball that will keep them on the edge of their seats until the final out.
