Southside Showdown Wild Card Series Predictions

Minnesota Twins (3) vs Houston Astros (6)

Vinnie Parise – Site Expert:

The Minnesota Twins had an up and down year in the AL Central. They allowed the White Sox and Indians to stick around but ultimately pulled out the division title by one game. They aren’t as much of a threat as some people believe but they will defeat the Houston Astros who don’t deserve to really even be in the playoffs. Both “at large” teams had a better record than them. Twins in 2.

Samiya Green:

There is not a doubt in my mind that the Twins take advantage of the Astros’ inconsistent batting lineup and their starting rotation. Kenta Maeda is starting the series with great momentum after an impressive regular season and the Astros have been struggling at the plate all season. The Twins have the edge in the hitting department thanks to Miguel Sano and the rest of the Bomba Squad. Unfortunately for the Astros, who’s pitching rotation ended the season with an average ERA of 4.31, they are in for a tough series.

Mitchell Kaminski:

I am surprised to see the Astros as underdogs in the first round but here we are. Minnesota has the best starting pitching depth they have had in a while with Maeda, Berrios, and Pineda. The Houston offense has been struggling all season. The Twins have also disappointed offensively but they have enough firepower to win the series behind their starting pitching. Prediction: Twins in 3.

Cody Young:

Twins in 2. Houston hasn’t looked like themselves all season, while this Minnesota team has been playing consistently well all year.

Jon Michael Walters:

Astros vs. Twins – I have to pass on this one, there are no winners here. Maybe the Twins?