Game Three in NY should be the Yankees' best opportunity to win a game, but that is not to say it is guaranteed to happen. It says much about the Astros' pitching staff that Javier was left out of the post season starting rotation. He was a phenom down the stretch and pitched extremely well vs. The Yankees this year. This will be his first post season start, but he threw 11 innings of solid relief in the 2021 post season, plus an unimpressive inning earlier this year.
Cole has been a steadying influence for the Yankees and with 2 wins to date, has pitched very well in the post season. He also pitched well against the Astros in the regular season.
The serIes has been all about the pitching to date, and it may continue that way. Even with a days' rest for both bullpens, you still have to favor the Astros' pen. They have been better than the Yankees in low total games through the season, and were 10-5 in road low total games. Even on the road and in Yankee Stadium, I can't count the Astros out. An okay run line is available for Saturday. Take the Astro at + 1 1/2.