Astros' Framber Valdez gets starting nod for World Series Game 1, will be opposed by Charlie Morton

Tuesday, October 26, 2021

Stats show Astros are favored to win the World Series

What are the odds of the Astros beating the Braves in the World Series? We went straight to the experts, and it turns out the 'Stros are a pretty safe bet.

HOUSTON, Texas -- The Houston Astros will start left-hander Framber Valdez against the Atlanta Braves in Game 1 of the World Series, which begins Tuesday night.

The video above is from a related story that breaks down the chances the 'Stros have to win the World Series

Valdez, 27, is coming off the best start of any pitcher this postseason after going eight innings and giving up just one run against the Boston Red Sox in Game 5 of the American League Championship Series. He'll be opposed by Braves right-hander Charlie Morton.

"I expect a very formidable foe," Astros manager Dusty Baker said on Sunday. "When you get down to the last two teams, you can't overlook anybody.

"David [the Braves] just slew Goliath. They have a good team."

Astros righty Lance McCullers has been all but declared out for the World Series after missing the ALCS with forearm tightness. A decision on centerfielder Jake Meyers (shoulder) is pending. Rosters don't have to be turned into the league until Tuesday morning. The series features several connections between the Astros and Braves, including one that involves Baker, Braves manager Brian Snitker and the late, great Hank Aaron.

"Hank Aaron hired [Snitker] and Hank Aaron was very close to me," Baker said. "To be in the year of Hank Aaron's celebration, to be in the year of Hank Aaron's passing ... it's very special to go back to Atlanta. It's going to be a storybook ending for all of us."

There's a family connection between the teams as well, as Astros coach Troy Snitker is the son of the Braves manager. The two have been discussing the possibility of meeting in the World Series since both of their teams missed out on making the Fall Classic by a game last year. "It's unbelievable," the younger Snitker said. "It's something we were praying and hoping it would happen. For our family, I don't know if we can envision anything bigger than this."

WATCH: World Series features dad versus son in Astros matchup against Braves

This year's World Series between the Astros and Braves is proven to be a family affair between Houston's hitting coach and Atlanta's general manager.

Troy was asked who his mom is going to be rooting for.

"I have no idea," he said with a smile. "I don't know if she's going to clap when something happens or cry. My guess is that she's going to be a mess."

"It's cool to think about two pennants in the same house. One of us is bringing home the trophy."

The first pitch is set for 7:09 p.m. at Minute Maid Park.

WATCH: Looking to get your hands on some World Series tickets? We have info here