The Houston Astros travel to Comerica Park to wrap up their three-game set with the Detroit Tigers on Wednesday, August 20, 2025. First pitch is scheduled for 1:10 PM ET, with coverage on MLBN and local networks. Houston (71–55) sends Framber Valdez (10–7, 3.67 ERA, 1.23 WHIP) to the mound, while Detroit (59–67) counters with veteran right-hander Charlie Morton (6–9, 4.58 ERA, 1.36 WHIP). Oddsmakers list the Astros as road favorites at around –135, with the over/under set at 8.5 runs.
Team Analysis
Houston Astros
The Astros enter the finale in strong position, holding steady in the AL playoff chase. Their offense has found its groove in recent weeks, led by Yordan Alvarez (34 HR, 91 RBI, .278 AVG) and Kyle Tucker (27 HR, 80 RBI, .292 AVG). Houston’s lineup length makes them a threat to score in any inning, and Comerica’s large gaps suit their gap-to-gap hitters as well.
Framber Valdez continues to be a workhorse for Houston’s rotation. With 146 strikeouts across 154 innings, he’s shown his usual command of the strike zone and heavy sinker. Valdez has kept the ball in the park, allowing just 13 homers this year, and his ground-ball tendencies should play well in Detroit.
Detroit Tigers
Detroit sits below .500 but has played competitive baseball at home. Their lineup is young, and though inconsistent, they’ve had key contributions from Spencer Torkelson (23 HR, 67 RBI) and Riley Greene (.281 AVG, 19 HR, 62 RBI). The Tigers will need timely hitting against Valdez, as prolonged slumps with runners in scoring position have plagued them all season.
Charlie Morton, at 41 years old, has flashed durability but also signs of decline. His strikeout stuff (122 Ks in 132 innings) still plays, but his command has slipped, leading to more walks and hard contact. Against an Astros team with patience and power, Morton must get ahead in counts early to stay effective.
Key Matchups to Watch
- Valdez vs Tigers’ right-handed bats – Torkelson and Greene will be tasked with carrying Detroit’s offense.
- Astros’ middle order vs Morton’s curveball – If Alvarez and Tucker sit on mistakes, it could be a long afternoon for Detroit.
- Bullpen depth – Houston’s relief corps has been steadier, giving them the edge in late-game situations.
Prediction
This matchup leans Houston’s way, with Valdez’s consistency on the mound and the Astros’ bats giving them the upper hand. Detroit can compete if Morton recaptures vintage form, but the more likely outcome is Houston controlling the series finale.
Final Score Prediction: Astros 6, Tigers 3
Best Bets
- Astros Moneyline (–135) – Valdez gives Houston the clear edge on the mound.
- Over 8.5 Runs – Both lineups have power potential, especially in mid-day conditions.
