Yovani Gallardo, Scott Kazmir Take Mound in Texas Rangers vs Houston Astros Tilt

The Houston Astros will look to improve on a 80-73 record when they take on the Texas Rangers, a key part of the MLB betting odds line up on Friday.

The Houston Astros will rely on Scott Kazmir to turn in a quality outing on the mound in this one, while Yovani Gallardo will be his counterpart for the Texas Rangers. Scott Kazmir is 7-10 this season, and Yovani Gallardo is 12-11.

Sportsbook Odds & Computer Pick

On the MLB moneyline for this betting odds matchup, Houston sat as -142 favorites earlier in the day at Sportsbook. The over/under total was set at 8.5, according to Sportsbook.

Odds Shark computer prediction formulas pick a 5.6-5 win for the Rangers on Friday. View the computer score prediction and who will win the pick on the moneyline for all upcoming MLB matchups here.

Texas Rangers vs Houston Astros Matchup

Team Betting Records & Power Rankings

The Houston Astros bring a 80-73 record to the battle against the 83-69 Rangers. Stay Informed: follow us on Twitter for odds specials, betting line moves and Houston vs Texas injuries news.

According to MLB Power Rankings here, it's the No. 15-ranked Houston Astros and the No. 3-rated Texas Rangers in this matchup.

Statistical Matchup

The game also pits Houston Astros No. 11-rated offense, averaging 4.38 runs per game, against a Texas Rangers defense that ranks No. 22 at 4.51 in runs allowed per game. The Houston Astros have averaged 8.26 hits per game so far, less than Texas Rangers batters have averaged on the year (8.74 hits per game).

Pitching and defensive stats are important baseball handicapping betting factors and Houston has the No. 4-ranked defense. In the other dugout, the Rangers own the No. 22 mark in runs allowed.