Spencer Arrighetti takes the mound tonight in the series finale against the Royals. A win would give the Astros the series and keep the momentum rolling. After two dramatic wins in a row this is a huge opportunity. And very much so in reach for Houston, especially with Arrighetti on the mound.
Arrighetti's Season
So far he is 7-1 with a 2.21 ERA, per MLB, a historic start to the season. He is also the only pitcher since 1913 to enter June with 7+ wins, a sub-1.50 ERA, and fewer than 30 hits allowed, per OptaSTATS. He has been the most consistent pitcher on the staff all season and was named AL Pitcher of the Month for May. This is exactly the kind of start the Astros want him for. The Astros need him to keep the momentum going and secure the sweep.
The Opposition
Stephen Kolek is 3-1 with a 3.14 ERA, per MLB. A decent matchup but the Astros offense is on fire right now. The Astros now have 10 homers in three straight games. This lineup is dangerous when they are on.
Why This Game Matters
The Astros are 33-39 and need to keep winning series. A full sweep in Kansas City would be huge for momentum. Hunter Brown returns this week during the Tigers series, and the schedule gets tougher after this so banking wins now is critical.
Arrighetti has been the anchor all season. Tonight is another chance to prove this team is for real. The Astros are playing their best baseball of the season and Arrighetti is leading the way today.
