The Houston Astros (22-20) face the Texas Rangers (23-21) in the opener of a 4-game set Thursday. First pitch from Globe Life Field is set for 8:05 p.m. ET (MLB Network). Let's analyze BetMGM Sportsbook's MLB odds around the Astros vs. Rangers odds and make our expert MLB picks and predictions for the best bets.

Winning the AFC South for a third straight time and potentially reaching a Super Bowl is the goal for Houston, which opens the season on the road with a major test: The Los Angeles Rams. Taking on an NFC contender, who has the fifth best odds to win the NFC, according to ESPN BET (+1000), will present challenges.

ARLINGTON - A matchup of fireballing right-handers, one resurgent and one rising, did not disappoint. Hunter Brown continued his excellent start to the season for the Houston Astros, hurling eight innings of one-run ball against the Texas Rangers in one of his best starts in the majors.