Milwaukee Brewers vs Houston Astros Picks and Predictions May 6th 2025

Astros Seek Timely Hits in Brewers Series Clash

The Houston Astros are searching for something that used to come naturally — timely hitting. As they head into Game 2 of their three-game set against the Milwaukee Brewers, the Astros face more than just a formidable opponent. They’re also battling the ghosts of missed opportunities.

With four consecutive road series losses and a sputtering offense, Houston’s margin for error is shrinking. But optimism remains. Manager Joe Espada believes a breakout is near. The question is — will it happen before the Brewers close the door?

Brewers Take Opener Behind Yelich, Myers

Monday’s opener had some storybook moments for Milwaukee. Christian Yelich, in his 1,500th career game, delivered a clutch two-run homer. Meanwhile, rookie Tobias Myers held the Astros in check for 5 1/3 innings, allowing just one run en route to a 5-1 Brewers win.

The Astros didn’t go quietly. They tallied nine hits but left eight runners on base, including the bases loaded in the sixth — a crucial missed chance that could’ve changed the game’s momentum.

“We had an opportunity there to capitalize,” Espada said of the sixth-inning jam. “We’ve just got to relax and let the game come to us.”

To analyze Houston’s recent performance and trends, check the MLB Team Page.

Houston’s Offense: Power Outage or Just a Slump?

Despite nine hits in Game 1, the Astros scored only once. That’s been the theme during this recent cold stretch — not the lack of contact, but the lack of timing.

Pena’s Hot Streak a Lone Bright Spot

Shortstop Jeremy Pena extended his hitting streak to nine games with a leadoff single. He’s batting .368 during that span with four RBIs. While the rest of the lineup has been inconsistent, Pena is showing signs of the clutch gene Houston needs right now.

Yordan Alvarez Out — But Not Forgotten

One major hole in the Astros’ offense is Yordan Alvarez, who was placed on the 10-day IL with right-hand inflammation. His numbers were down (.210 average, 3 HR), but he’s still a player opponents fear.

In his place, Cesar Salazar was recalled from Triple-A. The catcher may not bring Alvarez’s bat, but his presence offers more lineup flexibility.

To monitor player statuses and lineup adjustments, follow the MLB Picks Page.

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Pitching Preview: Wesneski vs Patrick

Game 2 will be a battle of right-handers with something to prove. Hayden Wesneski will take the hill for the Astros, while Chad Patrick starts for the Brewers.

Hayden Wesneski: New Role, Familiar Results

After bouncing between the rotation and bullpen with the Cubs, Wesneski is now starting full-time in Houston. So far, the transition is working. He enters with a 3.86 ERA and has had success against Milwaukee — a 1.86 ERA in five appearances.

In his last outing, he gave up just two runs in five innings but still took the loss in a 2-0 defeat against Kansas City. The run support just wasn’t there.

Chad Patrick: Better Than His Numbers Show

Patrick is 1-3 with a 2.87 ERA, which shows how deceiving records can be. He’s allowed just seven runs in his last 16 innings, and his 102-pitch effort in a recent loss to the White Sox had manager Pat Murphy singing his praises.

“He was outstanding,” Murphy said. “The line won’t look as good as he pitched. He pitched really well.”

If Patrick can keep Houston quiet again, the Brewers could clinch the series before Wednesday’s finale.

Check projected odds and pitching props on the MLB Odds Page.

Key Matchups and Trends

This series is full of micro-battles — hitters trying to escape slumps, pitchers trying to find rhythm, and managers trying to adjust mid-season.

What Houston Needs to Turn It Around

• Get more than just singles — doubles and home runs are needed to shift momentum
• Plate discipline with RISP (runners in scoring position)
• Let Wesneski settle early and pitch deep

What Milwaukee Needs to Win the Series

• Ride the home-field momentum
• Give Patrick run support early — take pressure off the bullpen
• Yelich needs to continue sparking the offense, especially with Frelick sidelined

For betting insights and matchup breakdowns, check out the Expert Betting Guide.

Injury Watch: Alvarez Out, Frelick Day-to-Day

Houston’s missing one of their biggest bats with Alvarez on the IL. But Milwaukee is also down an important piece. Outfielder Sal Frelick missed Monday’s game due to a sore left knee. An MRI showed swelling, but he’s not heading to the IL — yet.

The Brewers will need others in the outfield to step up if Frelick remains sidelined, especially against a team like Houston that can heat up quickly.

FAQs

Why is Houston struggling to score runs?
They’ve had baserunners but struggled with timing and situational hitting — especially with the bases loaded or runners in scoring position.

How has Hayden Wesneski performed in 2024?
Wesneski’s been solid as a starter with a 3.86 ERA. He’s also had past success against the Brewers from his time with the Cubs.

Who is filling in for Yordan Alvarez?
Cesar Salazar was called up to provide roster flexibility, though he’s not expected to replace Alvarez’s power in the lineup.

Can the Brewers win the series at home?
They’ve dominated Houston at home since 2012. A win in Game 2 would seal the series before the finale.

What’s the outlook for Sal Frelick?
MRI results showed inflammation but no structural damage. He’s currently listed as day-to-day.

Where can I follow Astros and Brewers betting trends?
Visit the MLB Team Page for up-to-date player and team betting stats.