Houston Astros vs Minnesota Twins Game 4
Astros Seize Momentum, Twins Seek Redemption
Twins vs Astros Game 4 MLB Playoff Showdown: Astros Aim for AL Championship Spot against Resilient Twins, the tables have turned in the AL Division Series. Once the underdogs in a roaring Target Field, the Astros showcased their championship pedigree with a dominant 9-1 victory in Game 3. This win edges them closer to their seventh consecutive AL Championship Series berth. Meanwhile, the Twins, after overcoming a haunting postseason losing streak, are feeling the heat.
Betting Angles and Insights
- Houston Astros (J URQUIDY)
- Moneyline: +110
- Runline: +1½ -190
- Total O/U: 8
- Team Total Over: 3½ -145
- Team Total Under: 3½ +115
- Consensus Picks: 91%
- AI Prediction Score: 4.5
- AI Total: 10
- Minnesota Twins (J RYAN)
- Moneyline: -120
- Runline: -1½ +160
- Total O/U: 8
- Team Total Over: 3½ -145
- Team Total Under: 4 +115
- Consensus Picks: 9%
- AI Prediction Score: 5.5
- AI Total: 10
Game Information
| Minnesota Twins vs Houston Astros | |||
| National League Divisional Series Game 4 | |||
| Location: Target Field, Minneapolis, MN | |||
| Date and Time: October 11th, 2023. 7:07 p.m.ET / 6:07 p.m.CT | |||
| How to watch it: FS1 or MLB.TV |
Pitching Prowess Takes Center Stage
Astros: The limelight is on Jose Urquidy. Despite challenges in the regular season, Urquidy is back in form. His impressive six scoreless innings against the D-backs late in September is evidence. With a postseason ERA of 3.72 across 12 games, Urquidy will be pivotal for the Astros.
Twins: Joe Ryan is the man of the hour for the Twins. Bouncing back from a groin injury that impacted his form, he finished the regular season just shy of 200 strikeouts. His impressive track record against home runs from April to June will be crucial in this matchup.
Projected Starting Lineups
Astros: The Astros’ lineup, having delivered in Game 3, looks robust. With Dusty Baker confirming the presence of Michael Brantley as the DH and Yordan Alvarez in left field, Game 4’s lineup seems powerful.
Probable Lineup:
- Jose Altuve, 2B
- Alex Bregman, 3B
- Yordan Alvarez, LF
- Kyle Tucker, RF
- José Abreu, 1B
- Michael Brantley, DH
- Chas McCormick, CF
- Jeremy Peña, SS
- Martín Maldonado, C
Twins: The Twins, with Urquidy’s reverse splits in consideration, might present some surprises in their starting lineup, especially given the underperformance of certain left-handed bats this postseason.
Probable Lineup:
- Jorge Polanco, 2B
- Carlos Correa, SS
- Royce Lewis, DH
- Max Kepler, RF
- Kyle Farmer, 3B
- Donovan Solano, 1B
- Willi Castro, LF
- Ryan Jeffers, C
- Michael A. Taylor, CF
Bullpen Dynamics and Notable Injuries
Astros: Even after their Game 3 triumph, Astros tapped into Bryan Abreu and Phil Maton, though both should be available for Game 4. Key relievers Ryan Pressly and Hector Neris are well-rested, and J.P. France is on standby for long relief.
Twins: With their backs against the wall, every Twins reliever will be on high alert. Notable arms like Louie Varland and Griffin Jax might be called upon sooner than usual.
Injury Updates: Astros’ Kendall Graveman remains sidelined due to a shoulder issue. Twins’ Royce Lewis seems fit after his recent hamstring strain and should be actively involved in Game 4.
Players to Watch
Astros: Alvarez has been in scintillating form, going 6-for-12 in the series. While Altuve and Peña are contributing consistently, McCormick’s form is an area of concern.
Twins: Correa continues to shine, and his Game 2 performance has made him a crucial player for the Twins. However, Kirilloff and Wallner need to step up, having yet to register hits this postseason.
Final Note: High-Octane MLB Action
Astros vs Twins Game 4: As the game unfolds, the Astros look to seal the deal, while the resilient Twins aim for a comeback. With a blend of power-hitting, tactical pitching matchups, and electric atmospheres, this game promises unmatched MLB excitement.
