The Astros head to Chicago for a three-game series against the White Sox starting Friday night. Spencer Arrighetti takes the mound against White Sox right-handed pitcher Davis Martin.
The Astros are riding a three game winning streak after sweeping the Marlins, and they need to keep the momentum going.
Arrighetti has not been the same since June, but there is still time for him to bounce back. Here is a look at the pitching matchup for Friday's game:
Spencer Arrighetti
Arrighetti is currently 7-5 with a 4.34 ERA and 87 strikeouts in 87 innings, per MLB.
He has struggled recently, allowing six or more earned runs in three of his last five starts. Not the performance they need from the pitcher who was named AL Pitcher of the Month in May.
Arrighetti's walk rate has been one of the biggest concerns lately. He has been putting too many runners on base and it has been costing him. If he can limit the free passes tonight he gives the Astros a real chance.
The Astros need the version of Arrighetti they had in May. A bounce back outing tonight would go a long way, especially in keeping the momentum going. Setting the right tone on the mound almost always makes a difference for the team.
Davis Martin
Martin is currently 9-5 with a 3.31 ERA and 97 strikeouts in 106 innings, per MLB.
Has been one of the steadier arms in Chicago's rotation. A tough matchup for the Astros offense on the road.
Chicago has been outstanding at home this season with a 31-19 record, one of the best home records in baseball, and the Astros will need to be sharp on the road.
The Astros are 50-54 heading into this series. A three game winning streak has them feeling good, but they need to keep it going.
Yordan Alvarez leads MLB with 34 home runs and will be the key. Peña has also been on a hot streak and a major contributor since returning from the injured list.
The White Sox have been one of the surprises of the season. They are not a team the Astros can take lightly, especially on the road at Rate Field where they have been nearly impossible to beat.
A bounce back from Arrighetti is the storyline to watch. The Astros have the offense to win this game if he can give them five solid innings. Consistency and command will be key.
