Fair warning, I'm not Nostradamus, but let's dive into this promising matchup between the Houston Astros and the Minnesota Twins.
They're set to clash at the good old Target Field which, without spilling too many beans, isn't particularly slanted towards the pitchers or batters. A bit of a neutral ground if you will, much like Switzerland, but with hot dogs and home runs.
Starting for the Astros is Hunter Brown who has been out there 17 times this season with an ERA of 4.110 - not the most impressive number, considering he's been outpaced by the Twins' ace, Joe Ryan, who sports a slightly more appealing 3.337 ERA this season.
The Astros do have some firepower though, notably in the form of Jose Altuve and Yordan Alvarez, who are swinging their bats like those pesky moles at the arcade. The Twins, however, aren't exactly slumming it. Keep a keen eye out for Carlos Correa and Royce Lewis, they've been cooking up something special this season.
Looking back, these teams have bounced back and forth like a riveting game of ping-pong. Bit of tit-for-tat, really. The recent outings of both teams don't paint a clear winner either. The Astros, coming off a successful run against the Jays, might be getting a bit too comfortable in their cowboy boots.
Regular season records? Well, the Twins have managed to outperform the Astros so far, but you can never underestimate a bit of underdog spirit: Rocky Balboa didn't wear those American flag shorts for nothing.
Ultimately, let me either infuriate or make your day with my prediction. Judging by the Twins' lower spread and home advantage, combined with a marginally superior season record and a slightly more polished starting pitcher, I'd wager on the Twins pulling out ahead.
Albert’s Prediction: Minnesota Twins by 2