Texas Rangers vs Houston Astros Picks and Predictions May 16th 2025

Surging Rangers Hand Ball to Eovaldi vs. Astros and McCullers

The Texas Rangers are heating up, and their rotation is leading the charge. After a gritty 1-0 win over the Houston Astros in Thursday’s opener—powered by Jacob deGrom’s 8 scoreless innings and Jake Burger’s solo homer—Texas will look to extend its season-best six-game win streak on Friday in Arlington.

Next in line: co-ace Nathan Eovaldi (4-2, 1.78 ERA), who will toe the rubber in Game 2 of this four-game AL West showdown.

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Eovaldi Locked In, Fueling Rotation Surge

Eovaldi has been absolutely dominant of late—allowing just two runs over his last four starts. In that stretch, he’s gone 3-0 with 25 strikeouts, and he’s been especially sharp in his past two starts, yielding only one run across 13 innings.

While his career mark vs. Houston (3-5, 4.36 ERA) is mixed, this is a different version of Eovaldi, one who’s thriving in a pressure-packed role as Texas eyes a return to the postseason.

“I like the way we’re making each other better,” Eovaldi said of his rotation mates. “Everybody’s confident. We go out and throw six or seven strong innings every time.”

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Astros Turning to McCullers Amid Adversity

On the other side, the Astros will send out Lance McCullers Jr. (0-1, 15.75 ERA), who continues his comeback after 915 days away from Major League action due to major arm surgery.

His return has been rocky. After a promising no-decision against the White Sox in his first start, he was shelled by the Reds in his second—allowing seven runs in just one-third of an inning.

Off the field, things have been just as turbulent. McCullers has faced online threats against himself and his family, prompting Astros manager Joe Espada to speak out.

“He hasn’t pitched in 2 1/2 years—it’s going to take time,” Espada said. “But this type of reaction is unacceptable.”

McCullers has struggled historically against Texas too—posting a 1-4 record with a 3.75 ERA in 12 career appearances against the Rangers.

Need more info on betting trends and pitcher history? Check our Expert Betting Guide for a sharper read.

Can the Rangers Stay Hot?

With deGrom, Eovaldi, and Tyler Mahle (1.47 ERA) all dealing, the Rangers have one of the best rotations in baseball. They’ve allowed just nine total runs during this six-game surge, proving they can beat teams in any kind of game.

The offense, led by the likes of Adolis Garcia, Marcus Semien, and now Jake Burger, has shown enough pop to get by—even in tight, low-scoring contests.

Houston, meanwhile, is desperate for traction. They’ve lost two straight and need McCullers to show flashes of his old form just to keep pace in the AL West.

For clubhouse insight, win streak stats, and historical data, dive into our MLB Team Page.

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FAQs

When is the next Rangers vs. Astros game?
Friday night in Arlington, the second of a four-game series.

Who’s pitching for the Rangers?
Nathan Eovaldi, who is 4-2 with a 1.78 ERA and has allowed just 2 runs in his last 4 starts.

Who is starting for the Astros?
Lance McCullers Jr., making just his third start since returning from a 2+ year injury layoff.

How long is the Rangers’ current win streak?
Six games, during which they’ve allowed only 9 total runs.

What are Eovaldi’s career stats vs. Houston?
He’s 3-5 with a 4.36 ERA in 12 starts.

Where can I find predictions and best bets for this game?
Visit our MLB Picks Page for expert analysis and betting strategies.