Ohio Voice 
On Tuesday, Sept. 24, 2024, the Houston Astros (85-72) will rely on the left arm of Framber Valdez as they welcome the Seattle Mariners (81-76) to Minute Maid Park. Seattle, in turn, will entrust Logan Gilbert with the start in this pivotal late-season matchup. First pitch is scheduled for 8:10 p.m. ET.
Mariners vs Astros Game Details:
- Date: Tuesday, September 24, 2024
- Time: 8:10 p.m. ET
- TV Broadcast: ROOT Sports NW
- Venue: Minute Maid Park, Houston, Texas
- Stream: Available on Fubo
Mariners to Keep an Eye On:
Cal Raleigh has wielded a powerful bat for Seattle, despite a modest .216 average. His 31 home runs and 96 RBIs speak to his ability to deliver when it counts, while his .736 OPS reveals his overall value at the plate. However, his 28.2% strikeout rate shows he’s prone to swing and miss, while his 11.6% walk rate indicates some patience.
Randy Arozarena, with 20 homers and 76 runs scored, has had a productive season, though his .221 average suggests struggles for consistency. Despite striking out in 25.7% of plate appearances, his 20 stolen bases out of 29 attempts highlight his speed. Arozarena’s .334 on-base percentage hints at solid discipline with an 11.3% walk rate.
Julio Rodriguez has been one of the more complete offensive threats, slashing .275/.328/.411 with 19 home runs and 65 RBIs. He’s not only a power hitter but also an impressive base-stealer with 24 swiped bags. His strikeout rate (25.4%) is on the higher side, and a 6.4% walk rate indicates room for growth in plate discipline.
Justin Turner brings a veteran presence to Seattle’s lineup, posting an OPS of .737. With 11 home runs, 50 RBIs, and a solid .258 average, Turner continues to be a reliable contributor. His strikeout rate sits at a manageable 17.7%, while his walk rate of 11% underscores his seasoned approach.
Astros to Keep an Eye On:
Yordan Alvarez, the Astros’ slugging sensation, has delivered a magnificent season. His .308 average, 35 homers, and 86 RBIs are testament to his all-around prowess at the plate. Alvarez’s .392 on-base percentage is complemented by a 15% strikeout rate and a 10.9% walk rate, underscoring his balanced offensive approach.
Jose Altuve, a cornerstone of the Astros’ lineup, has maintained a stellar .295 average, launching 20 homers while swiping 22 bases. His .789 OPS reflects his power-speed combo, and his 65 RBIs further bolster his resume. Altuve’s discipline at the plate has yielded a 7.1% walk rate alongside a mere 13.6% strikeout rate.
Alex Bregman has contributed 25 home runs and 73 RBIs, though his .256 batting average indicates room for improvement. His .443 slugging percentage showcases his power, while his 13.6% strikeout rate speaks to his ability to make consistent contact. With a 7.1% walk rate, Bregman adds a solid plate discipline to Houston’s lineup.
Yainer Diaz has been a revelation, boasting a .302 batting average. His .774 OPS highlights a strong season at the dish, where he’s hit 16 homers and driven in 84 runs. Though his 3.8% walk rate shows he doesn’t draw many free passes, his 16.7% strikeout rate reflects his ability to make consistent contact.
Houston’s Starting Pitcher: Framber Valdez
Valdez (14-7, 2.85 ERA) takes the mound for his 28th start this season. He has been nothing short of brilliant, with 165 strikeouts in 170 2/3 innings. His most recent performance, a seven-inning, one-run outing against the Padres, underscored his consistency. Notably, Valdez has gone at least five innings in 14 consecutive starts, averaging 6.3 frames per appearance. Six of his outings this year have been scoreless, solidifying his place as one of the league’s most reliable arms. His 2.85 ERA ranks fourth in the majors, and his WHIP of 1.084 is among the best, ranking 12th.
The stage is set for a highly anticipated showdown, with two teams fighting for postseason positioning. Expect fireworks at Minute Maid Park as Valdez and Gilbert battle it out on the mound.
