How to watch, odds, predictions and more for the Ope series

The Angels made a statement by earning their first home series sweep of 2024 against the San Diego Padres, turning what started as a difficult season into a reason for optimism ahead of a big weekend series against the Houston Astros.

The Angels (24-38) can’t catch the Astros (28-35) in the standings this weekend, but they can show the home crowd that the momentum they built against the Padres isn’t a fluke by defeating a hated division rival.

The Angels will give the ball to Griffin Canning (2-6, 4.69 ERA) in Game 1. The right-hander looks to improve to his 3.26 ERA in his last nine starts.

Here’s what else you need to know about Friday night’s game:

• Time: 6:38 p.m. (Pacific Time)

• Location: Angel Stadium

• Television: Bally Sports West

• Radio: 8:30 a.m.

• Moneyline: Angels +136 / Astros -162

• Over/under: 8.5

• Odds via DraftKings

The Angels, riding a wave of recent success, could very well continue their good streak at home, especially since the Astros are experiencing some inconsistency on the field. Both starting pitchers have shown they can hold their own, but Griffin Canning’s recent outings suggest the Angels may have the advantage of keeping the game close. The prediction leans towards a close contest, with a slight advantage in favor of the Angels.

• With a .368 batting average, 21 RBIs in his first 23 games and a recent career milestone of 1,000 hits and 500 runs, Kevin Pillar has been a bright spot in the Angels’ lineup.

• Angels outfielder Jo Adell is one of seven MLB players with 11-plus home runs and 8-plus stolen bases this season.

• The Angels lead the season series against the Astros, 2 games to 1, after winning a series at Minute Maid Park in Houston for the first time since 2022.

Game odds are updated periodically and are subject to change.

If you or someone you know has a gambling problem and needs help, call 1-800-GAMBLER.