3 Bold Predictions for Astros-Rays ALDS

The Houston Astros have a great chance of getting back to the World Series. You could argue this club is better than the 2017 team that won it all, but that doesn't mean they'll have an easy time getting through the AL. This Tampa Bay Rays team is scrappy and has arguably the best pitching staff in the MLB.

Here are three bold predictions for the Astros-Rays ALDS.

3. Yordan Alvarez Has Big Papi-Type Moment

Yordan Alvarez may be a rookie, but he's quickly become one of Houston's best offensive threats. Alvarez has light-tower power, and you can bet he's going to have himself a Big Papi-style clutch moment to win this Astros team a ballgame.

2. Charlie Morton Outduels Zack Greinke in Game 3

Zack Greinke has pitched brilliantly as a member of the Astros since arriving in a trade, but he'll be no match for Charlie Morton and the Rays in Game 3. Not only has Greinke fallen short in previous postseasons, but Morton just doesn't lose playoff games and will have the advantage at home.

1. Tyler Glasnow and Blake Snell Match Justin Verlander and Gerrit Cole Over First 2 Games

Whether the Rays can defeat Justin Verlander and Gerrit Cole in the first two games remains to be seen, but look for Tyler Glasnow and Blake Snell to match the frontrunners for the AL Cy Young Award. Snell is a former Cy Young winner himself and Glasnow was leading the pack in the AL this year before an injury sidelined him for months. They may not have the experience, but they have the talent and are backed by a dominant bullpen and pesky offense.