Twins rookie right-hander Griffin Jax (1-1, 6.41 ERA) has only 26 2/3 innings under his belt, spread out over three starts and four appearances as a reliever.

The Astros are #1 for several offensive categories, including runs per nine innings and batting average, and I think they'll run Jax off the mound early, which means they'll get to tee off against a very weak Minnesota bullpen.

Left-hander Framber Valdez (7-2, 3.01 ERA) will take the ball for Houston. He is 2-0 with a 1.62 ERA over five career appearances (two starts) against the Twins who are 9-26 in their last 35 games vs. a left-handed starter (0-5 in their last 5 road games vs. a left-handed starter).

8* play on Houston Astros -1.5.