MLB
Braves vs. Astros Game 3 prediction: Who is favored to win?
The Braves and the Astros are headed into Game 3, and after convincing wins by both teams leaving them at 1-1, which of them is favored to win next?
The Atlanta Braves and the Houston Astros face each other in Game 3 of the World Series in Atlanta, and after blowouts by both teams that left them tied at 1-1, it’s time to check which team is favored to win their encounter on Friday.
The Braves cruised to a 6-2 win at the World Series opener, while Houston dominated in Game 2 with a 7-2 victory. With such performances, oddsmakers have found it difficult to figure out who is more likely to win in the first Atlanta game.
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Home field advantage
This is the first World Series game in Atlanta in 22 years, so the fans will turn out in full force to support the Braves who are undefeated at home this postseason.
The Astros will have to play under National League rules which puts them at a slight disadvantage, as they will not be able to maximize the services of their designated hitter.
Battle of the rookies
There will be a matchup of young, talented rookie pitchers Ian Anderson of Atlanta and Houston’s Luis Garcia. It will be only the eighth time in World Series history to have two rookie starters.
Anderson has delivered a strong performance in the postseason, while Garcia, though impressive in Game 6, was not as solid in his two other postseason starts.
Garcia surrendered 10 runs in those games, while Anderson has yielded no more than two in any postseason game.
Also, since there are no designated hitters, ALCS MVP Yordan Alvarez will have to be accommodated by the Astros by moving defensive players in left field, as they need him in the lineup. This could result in messy play.
Though it has been close to call, it looks like the home team is slightly favored to come out the victors in Game 3.
Game 3 takes place on Friday, Oct. 29, at Truist Park in Atlanta, Georgia. The first pitch is scheduled for 8:09 p.m. ET.