Houston Astros: Home Opener Series Preview

GAME 3 – Yordano Ventura (0-0, 3.60) vs Scott Feldman (0-1, 9.00)

Ventura is an exciting young pitching prospect for the Royals.  He features a mid-90’s fastball along with a curve and a change-up. Last year he posted 3 starts with 11 strikeouts, and in his first start of the season, he struck out six Twins batters through five innings, not earning a decision. He also walked six batters, and such has been the only knock against him, along with his demeanor on the bump. The Astros have had success against Ventura, namely Correa and Jason Castro. Castro has struggled with the bat so far this year, so this would be as good as opportunity as any to get something started offensively.

Scott Feldman had a short first outing of the season in Milwaukee, only going four innings and giving up four runs. He, like the other Astro starters, struggled with his control, walking three batters, and giving up two home runs. Feldman has got to eliminate the walks, and throw is sinker more effectively.

Both home runs he gave up were on sinkers that didn’t sink. He is also in competition with Doug Fister to see who will be the number five starter once Lance McCullers returns, so he has added incentive to do well in this spot. Feldman has history with many of the Royals batters, with Alex Gordon and Lorenzo Cain having the most success.

Royals 5 – Astros 2

Season Record (Predictions) – 2-4

Next: Astros Blast: Time to Come Home

For the Astros to stop the Kansas City winning streak, they will have to get better performances from their starting pitching.  Offensively, George Springer needs to pick it up, and anything from Jason Castro will be a plus.  Evan Gattis has a chance of making his season debut against the Royals as well.