Chi. White Sox White Sox vs Houston Astros Picks and Predictions June 19th 2024

White Sox Turn to Garrett Crochet in Bid to Win Series Against Astros

Despite suffering a season with 54 losses, the Chicago White Sox’s starting pitching has recently emerged as a strength. This strength will be scrutinized as they plan to win a series interestingly since mid-May by going to ace left-hander Garrett Stitch (6-5, 3.16 Time) in Wednesday’s down against the meeting Houston Astros.

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Recent Performances and Key Players

Jonathan Cannon’s Heroics

Newcomer pitcher Jonathan Cannon paved the way for a possible series victory with an impressive showing on Tuesday evening. Cannon fell just one out shy of pitching a full shutout game, helping the White Sox win 2-0 in the first game of the series. He spread seven hits out in 8 2/3 innings, tossing 106 pitches in his longest game ever.

“Wasn’t much of a conversation,” Cannon said about his eighth-inning interaction with manager Pedro Grifol. “He looked at me and I’m like, ‘I got it.’ I’m glad he has that confidence in me to go out there.”

Offensive Contributions

The White Sox’s offense was minimal but effective, with both runs scoring on groundouts by Andrew Vaughn. Despite the limited hitting, with only two singles allowed by Houston’s pitchers, Chicago managed to capitalize on their few opportunities.

Garrett Crochet’s Recent Form

Garrett Crochet has been in excellent form, going 5-1 with a 1.36 ERA over his past nine starts. Although he has limited experience against Houston, with just one relief appearance resulting in a loss, his recent performance suggests he is well-prepared for the challenge.

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Astros’ Struggles and Key Players

Recent Slump and Absences

The Astros have lost five of their past eight games and struggled offensively on Tuesday, going 0-for-5 with runners in scoring position and stranding seven runners. They were missing key players, including right fielder Kyle Tucker (right shin contusion) and designated hitter Yordan Alvarez (family matter).

“Wish we could have them here. But they’re just not,” Astros manager Joe Espada said. “We’ve got to find ways to score when they aren’t in the lineup. We are capable of scoring when they aren’t in the lineup.”

Potential Return of Yordan Alvarez

Alvarez, who has been on fire in June with a .365 average and 15 RBIs, could return as early as Wednesday, providing a significant boost to the Astros’ lineup.

Hunter Brown’s Strong Form

Right-hander Hunter Brown (3-5, 5.00 ERA) will start for Houston, entering the game on a 13-inning scoreless streak while winning his past two starts. Brown has been particularly effective with his sinker, allowing just five hits and striking out nine over seven shutout innings in his last start against the Detroit Tigers.

“I think the swings I’m getting are better than the swings I was getting before I had it,” Brown said regarding his sinker. “My whole arsenal. I’m happy with where that pitch is at. It’s something I’m going to continue working on and find good spots to use it. I like the way that it’s been performing, no doubt.”

Strategic Considerations

White Sox Strategy

• Pitching and Defense: With Crochet’s strong recent form, the White Sox will rely on his ability to control the game from the mound. The defense will need to support him by minimizing errors and converting opportunities.
• Offensive Opportunities: The White Sox will aim to build on the small ball approach that worked on Tuesday, taking advantage of any scoring opportunities, however limited.

Astros Strategy

• Offensive Reinforcement: The potential return of Alvarez could be pivotal. The Astros will need to find ways to drive in runs, particularly with runners in scoring position, to support Brown’s pitching.
• Pitching Consistency: Brown’s sinker will be crucial in keeping the White Sox hitters at bay. Maintaining his recent form will be essential for Houston to stay competitive.

Conclusion

The upcoming game between the Chicago White Sox and the Houston Astros is expected to be an exciting showdown as both teams have different goals in mind. Fans can anticipate a closely fought game with powerful pitching and key players regaining their form. The White Sox will seek to utilize their home field advantage and recent pitching achievements, while the Astros will strive to address their offensive struggles and take advantage of their strong pitching performance.

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