Free MLB Picks Today: Houston Astros vs New York Mets 6/20/23

The New York Mets (34-38) are in for a challenge against Framber Valdez at Minute Maid Park on Tuesday when the impressive left-hander takes the mound for the Houston Astros (39-34).

The Mets took Monday’s series opener 11-1. Max Scherzer went eight innings for the win, allowing one run on four hits and striking out eight.

Francisco Lindor was 2 for 5 with a home run and a double in the win. He scored two runs and had five RBIs. Yainer Diaz went 1 for 4 with a solo home run for the Astros.

ON THE MOUND

Justin Verlander (2-3, 4.40 ERA) is slated to take the mound for New York. The righty allowed one run over six innings in his last start, a 4-3 home win over the Yankees on Wednesday. He yielded three hits while striking out six in the no-decision.

LHP Valdez (6-5, 2.27 ERA) takes the mound for Houston. It’s his first appearance of the season against the Mets. Valdez made one start against the Mets in 2022, throwing eight innings in a 9-1 road win on June 28. He gave up six hits and walked two while striking out five in the win.

In his last start on Wednesday, Valdez took a no-decision at home against the Nationals. He threw seven innings and gave up one run on five hits, striking out six, in the 5-4 victory. The lefty ranks second in the AL in ERA.

AT THE PLATE

Over the last five games, New York has averaged 6.2 runs a game, up from their season average of 4.5, partially due to increased slugging (.456 vs .400). Against lefties like Valdez this season, the Mets have a .727 OPS.

Lindor is the team’s strongest hitter against left-handers with a .911 OPS in 80 at-bats. Houston is averaging only 2.6 runs per game in the last five, down from 4.4 for the season, with their slash line dropping across the board (.221/.291/.355).

The ‘Stros have a .699 OPS against right-handers in 2023. With a .970 OPS over 131 at-bats, Yordan Alvarez has been their best hitter against right-handers.

HOME AND AWAY

New York is 17-23 in away games in 2023, scoring 4.8 runs per game while allowing 5.0 runs. Houston has lost five in a row in front of their home fans.

The ‘Stros are 20-19 at home this season, averaging 4.3 runs per game while surrendering 4.1. In the last 10 games between the teams at Minute Maid Park, Houston is 8-2 with an average scoreline of 6.0-4.5.