Houston Astros (104-73) vs Atlanta Braves (98-77)
Tuesday, November 02, 2021 at 8:09 pm
At 8:05 pm, our selection is on the Atlanta Braves over the Houston Astros. With their backs against the proverbial outfield wall, the Astros bounced back in a big way on Sunday, winning Game 5 and bringing this series back home with a chance to win it on their home field. Once again the Braves got to Houston early with a first inning grand slam before some people had settled into their Truist Park seats. But Houston finally solved the Atlanta bullpen and got out of town with a 9-5 victory. By now, Braves' LHP Max Fried's playoff struggles have been well documented. But let's not forget that this is a pitcher who was one of the most dominant starters in the second half. And Fried finished the season 14-7 with a 3.04 ERA in 28 starts. The 'Stros will go with RH Luis Garcia tonight and it's important to note that -- as much as Fried has struggled this post-season -- Garcia's 7.62 ERA is much higher than Fried's 5.40. Including the post-season, Garcia has allowed 12 ER in his last four home starts covering 16 2/3 innings (a 6.49 ERA). Take the Braves as an underdog. As always, good luck...Al McMordie.
Al’s Pick Atlanta Braves: +115
AUTHOR: Al McMordie
Al McMordie is the most honored technical handicapper in the country. Overall, in the last 31 years, Big Al has garnered 52 NUMBER ONE awards in football, basketball, baseball and hockey; 216 Top 5 finishes; and 416 Top 10 finishes.