The Mariners let one get away yesterday and will need to bounce back in a big way if they want a chance in this series. They have the right man on the mound with Luis Castillo. He has been a key for Seattle after coming over from the reds during the season. In the wildcard game, he was able to shut the Blue Jays on the road which got the Mariners off on the right foot. Valdez will start for the Astros. He has pitched well this season but not against the Mariners. He gave up six earned runs in 13 innings versus Seattle this year. He posted a 3.90 ERA in the month of September. Last year in the playoffs, Valdez allowed 17 runs in 19.2 innings, for a 7.78 ERA. The Mariners have scored a total of 21 runs in three playoff games.
the Astros have scored 38 runs in their last six games against the Mariners. Castillo has given up nine runs in his last 17.2 innings on the road. The over is 11-5 in the Astros' last 16 home games against the Mariners.

Play on the OVER.