Still, Dusty Baker will likely have another quick hook on Saturday with an off day before a three-game set in Boston. I think this one stays UNDER the total.

Conversely, the Red Sox will probably want at least five innings out of Eovaldi, who has been dominant in both of his postseason starts (10 1/3 IP, 7 H, 3 R, 1 BB, 16 K). Eovaldi generated a 32% called-strike plus whiff rate, or CSW%, against the Yankees, and a figure of 34% against Tampa Bay, generating 13 and 16 whiffs in those two starts, respectively.

Eovaldi is a big game pitcher and I think he keeps the Astros in check. Take the UNDER 8.5 this afternoon.