Texas Rangers vs Houston Astros Picks and Predictions May 17th 2025

Astros Seek More Offense vs. Tyler Mahle, Rangers

The Houston Astros found just enough offense to even their four-game series with the Texas Rangers, and they’ll look to build on that momentum in Saturday night’s Game 3 in Arlington.

Astros Spark Late to Stay Alive

After being blanked 1-0 in Thursday’s opener, Houston came alive in the seventh inning on Friday, plating all six of its runs in a 6-3 comeback win. Key two-out hits from Cam Smith and Isaac Paredes set the stage, but it was Christian Walker’s three-run blast that truly blew the doors open on a night that looked destined for another pitching duel.

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“That was a huge swing from Walker. Clutch hitting, two outs, and our guys just kept battling,” Astros manager Joe Espada said.

The win moved Houston to 23-24 on the season, and their recent offensive jolt could be crucial as they go up against one of the league’s top arms.

Tyler Mahle Leads a Dominant Rangers Rotation

Texas will turn to right-hander Tyler Mahle (4-1, 1.47 ERA), who has been nothing short of spectacular. Mahle has yet to allow more than two earned runs in any of his nine starts this season, and his ERA ranks third in all of Major League Baseball.

In his last start, Mahle handled the Colorado Rockies with ease, allowing one run over 6 1/3 innings. He’s allowed just eight total earned runs across 49 innings pitched this year and anchors a Rangers rotation that also features Nathan Eovaldi and Jacob deGrom, both in the top ten in ERA.

“I’m just trusting my stuff,” Mahle said. “I’m not trying to strike out everybody anymore — though, of course, I still want them — but I’m living over the plate more.”

Despite his success, Mahle has never beaten the Astros, entering Saturday with an 0-2 record and a 3.50 ERA in three career starts against them.

If you’re looking for insight on how this elite pitching duel may shape up, take a deeper dive into the latest MLB picks and predictions to get the expert edge on Astros vs. Rangers.

Blanco Back in 2023 Form

Countering Mahle will be Ronel Blanco (3-3, 4.04 ERA), who is hitting his stride after a bumpy start to 2025. In his last outing, Blanco tossed a dominant eight scoreless innings against the Cincinnati Reds, allowing just two hits while striking out a career-high 11.

Espada praised Blanco’s poise and precision:

“That’s the Blanco that we saw all last year… He’s starting to get in a groove with his confidence, and we need outings like that.”

Over his last four starts, Blanco has allowed only seven earned runs in 25 2/3 innings. He’s been steady against the Rangers in his career, with a 2-1 record and 3.08 ERA over seven appearances (four starts).

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Lone Star Showdown Heating Up

This intrastate battle has featured its share of high drama, and with both Mahle and Blanco dealing, Saturday’s matchup could be a tightly contested pitcher’s duel. However, with bats like Christian Walker heating up and both bullpens being tested, expect momentum to swing on a dime.