The rainout on Monday benefits the Astros, as they now bring Lance McCullers, Jr. back on regular rest. He held the White Sox down for 6 2/3 scoreless innings, allowing only four hits without walking anyone in Game 1. He only struck out four and induced a lot of weak contact. The White Sox hit a lot better at home, true, but McCullers was better on the road this year. White Sox starter Carlos Rodon dominated the Astros twice this year, but shoulder problems mean his velocity is diminished now. With the offense getting a third crack at him now with lower velocity, they'll get to him early. The Astros big bullpen arms will take it home.

The questions about Carlos Rodon haven’t been about his performance but about his durability. He has been pitching well when he has pitched, just 6 times since the end of July. However, he was experiencing a heavy velocity drop in his most recent outings. The Astros had the fourth highest wOBA against lefties this season, and they definitely won’t have a problem if Rodon loses velocity like he has been. Lance McCullers Jr. was dominant in his start in Game 1, and he has been very good in the playoffs throughout his career. The Astros bats are hot right now, and they have the experience. Take the Astros to finish this series in Chicago.

Caesars is giving us a plus line currently while other books have this game around -105 for the Astros, so let’s lock in this value now. Lance McCullers looked phenomenal in his first start of the playoffs, and if he has his command today the Astros should have a good chance to close out the series. The White Sox are trusting LHP Carlos Rodon today, but the Astros have been crushing lefthanders all season. I think the Astros get out to an early lead and hold it; grab their moneyline before it moves.

I originally thought that the rainout Monday would benefit the White Sox but no longer do. Why? The Astros are able to bring back ace Lance McCullers Jr. on regular rest to start, and Chicago still won't have very important reliever Michael Kopech. I thought he would be good Tuesday to go after pitching Sunday but apparently not. Also worry about Sox starter Carlos Rodon, who dealt with shoulder issues late in the season and saw his velocity drop. Hey, as a Sox fan I hope I am wrong here or they can still win by a run.