The set-up: After yesterday's 4-3 win, I think the Astros find a way to get the job done here as well. The Yanks have been playing well, but the injury issues (Didi Gregorius, Troy Tulowitzki, CC Sabathia, Giancarlo Stanton, Aaron Hicks and Dellin Betances) is once again becoming an issue vs. elite competition.

The pitchers: The Yanks turn to Jonathan Loaisiga (0-0, 2.25 ERA) gave up one run off one hit and three walks over four innings in a no-decision to the Tigers in his last start. Loaisiga remains in the rotation out of necessity until Sabathia returns.

The home side counters with Gerrit Cole (0-2, 3.00) who gave up three runs while striking out nine over six innings in a loss to Texas on Wednesday. Cole looks to punch his first win of the year after finishing 15-5 with a 2.88 ERA last season.

The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but New York is just 11-14 in its last 25 as an underdog in the +125 to +175 range, while Houston is 6-2 in its last eight after a one run home victory. Lay the price with confidence.

Houston Astros

9* play