The set-up: Justin Verlander gets the nod for the hard-hitting visiting side, while the Mariners counter with Tommy Milone. Verlander is on line for another Cy Young, but his counterpart has had issues with consistency vs. his opponent throughout his career. When taking everything into account, I think this posted number is a little low.

The pitchers: Verlander (9-2, 2.27 ERA) is leading the league in several statistical categories.

Milone (1-1, 3.60) is just 1-2 with a 5.74 ERA in nine career appearances vs. the Astros, which includes seven starts.

The pick: Seattle won't be taking anything for granted after snapping a four-game skid in yesterday's 14-1 win. Houston lost for the first time in five games and will clearly be eager to return to form. The situation and the numbers both definitely point to a slug-fest in this one on Thursday night.

10* Over