The Astros continue their homestand this weekend at Daikin Park with a three-game series against the Cleveland Guardians, one of the steadier teams in the American League. First pitch Friday night is at 7:10 p.m.
Cleveland comes in at 40-35, tied atop the AL Central with the Chicago White Sox. The Guardians bring a rotation that has been one of the more consistent in the league. Their offense is anchored by José Ramírez, the seven-time All-Star third baseman who remains one of the most dangerous hitters in the American League. Steven Kwan’s ability to get on base at the top of the order makes Cleveland’s lineup difficult to navigate from start to finish. This is a step up in competition from the Tigers and Royals, and the Astros—at 35-41 and four games behind Seattle in the AL West—need to show they can handle it.
The Matchups
Friday, June 19 at 7:10 p.m.: Tatsuya Imai (3-3, 6.43 ERA) vs. Tanner Bibee (2-7, 3.96 ERA)
Imai has shown flashes of what he can be but has been inconsistent, and his last outing—pulled in the first inning in Kansas City—left questions about his rotation spot. Bibee’s record understates his performance; his ERA is solid and he has 71 strikeouts on the season. Mike Burrows, moving to the bullpen for this series, could factor in as a piggyback option behind Imai.
Saturday, June 20 at 6:15 p.m.: Spencer Arrighetti (7-2, 2.57 ERA) vs. Joey Cantillo (5-3, 4.38 ERA)
Arrighetti has been one of the best starters in the American League this season and the AL Pitcher of the Month for May. Cantillo is a left-hander who has been solid if unspectacular, with 67 strikeouts across his starts. Saturday is Arrighetti’s to own.
Sunday, June 21 at 1:10 p.m.: Kai-Wei Teng (3-6, 4.31 ERA) vs. Slade Cecconi (3-5, 4.60 ERA)
Teng has struggled of late, allowing 14 earned runs over his last three starts. Cecconi has been similarly uneven, carrying a 4.60 ERA and a losing record into the series finale. Sunday’s game could go either way, which makes it the most unpredictable of the three.
At the Park
Friday is packed with reasons to get to Daikin Park early. The first 10,000 fans through the gates receive a Jose Altuve soccer jersey, presented by Daikin Comfort Technologies. First Bud Friday runs from 5:00-7:00 p.m., and Friday Night Fireworks follow the game, with a K-Pop theme presented by ConocoPhillips.
Saturday brings a Carlos Correa “Home” bobblehead for the first 10,000 fans, presented by Houston Methodist, along with Barbie Game Day festivities.
Sunday is Father’s Day, with Kids Run the Bases presented by Olshan Foundation Solutions and a City Connect Soccer Scarf giveaway for the first 10,000 fans, presented by Houston Methodist.
Looking to celebrate Dad before the game? Check out our Daikin Park restaurant guide for places to eat before first pitch.
