Houston Astros vs Los Angeles Dodgers Prediction & Picks - MLB

Prediction published on 7/6/25, 12:57 PM  by Erik Gibbs in MLB Picks

The Los Angeles Dodgers and Houston Astros will clash once again at Dodger Stadium today for the finale of their three-game series, with the Dodgers hoping to salvage at least one win and avoid a demoralizing sweep at home. The series has been all Houston so far, with the Astros opening with a stunning 18-1 blowout victory in Game 1, followed by a more competitive but still convincing 6-4 win in Game 2. For the Dodgers, who entered this series on a four-game winning streak, these two games have exposed lingering concerns — particularly their inability to produce timely offense and the bullpen’s ongoing control issues.

Despite being known for their potent lineup, the Dodgers have not been able to put runs on the board in this series. After scoring 26 total runs in their previous four games, Los Angeles has managed just five across the first two games against Houston.

Much of that can be attributed to the Astros’ ability to control the strike zone and capitalize on Dodgers' pitching mistakes. Houston, a team that averages just over four runs per game (ranking 22nd in MLB), has suddenly erupted at the plate, finding the right time to string hits together and apply pressure.

One major storyline has been the Dodgers’ bullpen struggles. Walks have plagued them all season, and Game 1 against Houston was no exception. The Astros drew eight walks in that contest, many of which led to scoring opportunities. Control issues like these have cost the Dodgers dearly, and unless addressed, they could continue to derail the team as the season progresses.