Houston Astros vs Seattle Mariners Picks and Predictions May 22nd 2025

Showdown in Houston: AL West-Leading Mariners Visit Astros in Crucial Series

The Seattle Mariners continue to impress this season, entering a crucial four-game road series against the Houston Astros with strong momentum and a firm grip on the top spot in the American League West. After clinching a 6-5 win over the Chicago White Sox in the series finale, Seattle extended its road series win streak to seven and improved to 5-1 on their current 10-game road trip.

Taveras Delivers Clutch Moment

One of the newest Mariners, right fielder Leody Taveras, delivered the game-winning two-run homer in the eighth inning of Wednesday’s matchup against Chicago. Claimed off waivers from the Texas Rangers earlier this month, Taveras’ clutch hit marked his first home run in a Seattle uniform, showcasing the Mariners’ balanced offensive approach.

This surge has pushed the Mariners to a 3.5-game lead over the Astros in the AL West standings, setting the stage for a high-stakes showdown at Daikin Park in Houston.

George Kirby Returns to the Mound

George Kirby is scheduled to make his 2024 season debut in the series opener. He was placed on the 15-day injured list in March due to right shoulder inflammation but made three successful rehab starts before returning. On a pitch limit of 80, Kirby brings elite control to the mound—leading the majors last season in starts and boasting just 1.1 walks per nine innings.

Kirby has excelled against Houston historically, with a 3-0 record and 1.55 ERA in seven career starts. His last outing in 2023, a dominant six-inning win in Houston, bodes well for his return.

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Astros Counter with McCullers Jr.

Lance McCullers Jr. will start for the Astros. Returning from arm surgery that sidelined him since the 2022 World Series, McCullers has shown flashes but remains inconsistent with a 7.88 ERA in three starts this season. Despite current struggles, he’s 10-3 with a 2.80 ERA in 18 career starts against Seattle.

Houston kicks off a 10-game homestand with a 15-9 record at Daikin Park, making this a crucial stretch to close the gap in the AL West.

Bullpen Needs to Step Up

Houston’s bullpen was a strength early, leading MLB in opponent batting average (.194) and OPS (.582). But with top relievers Bryan King, Bryan Abreu, and Josh Hader recently overused, lower-leverage arms faltered against Tampa Bay. Relievers Steven Okert, Kaleb Ort, and Forrest Whitley combined to allow late runs that cost them the series.

Manager Joe Espada emphasized the need for depth and consistency throughout the bullpen if the Astros hope to stay competitive.

High Stakes in AL West Clash

This series could redefine the AL West race. The Mariners aim to stretch their lead, while the Astros need home-field success to stay within striking distance. With key players returning and playoff implications rising, each game in this four-game set will carry added weight.

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