At the deadline, the Astros were willing to bet that Yusei Kikuchi, based on contact rate and other factors, was actually pitching better than his numbers suggested in Toronto. Kikuchi's first start for Houston vs. the Rays last week suggested as much, as he struck out 11 in just 5 2/3 innings of work. We are willing to ride with Kikuchi for a bit to see if the Astros had the right idea, and going against Texas doesn't scare us these days, as the Rangers have had trouble putting together the substantial win streak that might put them back in playoff contention. Jose Urena also off a miserable effort on the mound for Texas vs. the Bosox last Friday. Play Astros on ML

After the bullpen blew Monday’s game to the Rangers in extra innings, Framber Valdez took matters into his own hands on Tuesday. Although he fell just short of a no-hitter he limited the Astros bullpen usage to just two batters. We may see runs today but look for the Astros to take another game over the Rangers with veteran Yusei Kikuchi on the mound.

Rangers pitcher Jose Urena has 2.55 ERA at home entering Wednesday's matinee against Houston. The Astros counter with newly acquired Yusei Kikuchi. As a member of the Blue Jays, he got rocked by the Rangers on July 26, allowing eight hits and five earned runs in 4.2 innings. Kikuchi has yielded seven homers in his past seven starts and that could prove pivotal against Corey Seager, Adolis Garcia and company.