Astros vs. Yankees AL Championship Series Preview

BOSTON, MA - OCTOBER 08: Carlos Correa #1 of the Houston Astros celebrates with Jose Altuve #27 after hitting a two-run home run in the first inning against the Boston Red Sox during game three of the American League Division Series at Fenway Park on October 8, 2017 in Boston, Massachusetts. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)
BOSTON, MA - OCTOBER 08: Carlos Correa #1 of the Houston Astros celebrates with Jose Altuve #27 after hitting a two-run home run in the first inning against the Boston Red Sox during game three of the American League Division Series at Fenway Park on October 8, 2017 in Boston, Massachusetts. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images) /
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A look at how the Astros match up with the Yankees in this best-of-seven AL Championship Series

HOUSTON, TX – OCTOBER 06: Dallas Keuchel #60 of the Houston Astros throws a pitch in the first inning against the Boston Red Sox during game two of the American League Division Series at Minute Maid Park on October 6, 2017 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)
HOUSTON, TX – OCTOBER 06: Dallas Keuchel #60 of the Houston Astros throws a pitch in the first inning against the Boston Red Sox during game two of the American League Division Series at Minute Maid Park on October 6, 2017 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images) /

In a surprising twist, the Astros will not be traveling to Cleveland to take on the AL-best Indians. Thanks to an improbable comeback, the New York Yankees will be coming to Houston. While the Astros may be the initial favorites, this won’t be an easy series. Here’s how the two teams match up.

Starting Pitching

The Yankees’ rotation is headed by young phenom Luis Severino, who imploded in the Wild Card game but was strong in the ALDS. Midseason acquisition Sonny Gray had a solid season but struggled in his start against Cleveland. Masahiro Tanaka struggled this season but was dominant in his Division Series start. Veteran CC Sabathia posted respectable performances in both the regular season and the ALDS and has a wealth of playoff experience.

The Astros will start Yankee-killer Dallas Keuchel in Game One, fresh off a strong start against Boston. Justin Verlander was solid in his one start and one relief appearance in the ALDS. Brad Peacock and Charlie Morton struggled to varying degrees against the Red Sox but are coming off strong seasons. The presence of two aces atop the staff gives Houston the edge.

Edge: Astros