This is it. This is the must-win game for the Astros and they need their best starter and chose Cristian Javier instead of a rested Justin Verlander. Aaron Nola and Verlander squared off in Game 1, and Nola is going tonight. But here’s the edge Javier has: He hasn’t allowed a run in his last five starts and the Astros have won seven straight behind him. Verlander will win the AL Cy Young, but he’s been very ordinary, allowing 13 runs between his last three 2022 playoff starts. Backs to the wall, I like the Astros' desperation, urgency, and choice of starter. Houston to win.

Aaron Nola hasn't been great in his past two starts, but the Phillies are 6-0 at home in these playoffs and have hit 17 home runs in those games. Houston starter Cristian Javier hasn't pitched since Oct. 22 and just 6.2 innings since Oct. 1. With my limits on here, I'll take the runline even at a pricy -190. I personally don't care who wins but simply want to see a one-run game.