Astros Face Struggling Angels in Crucial Series

The Houston Astros will face the Los Angeles Angels in a three-game series beginning Tuesday at Daikin Park. Houston has named Cristian Javier as Tuesday's starter, while Peter Lambert is slated for Thursday. Wednesday's starting pitcher for the Astros remains to be announced.

The Angels enter this series in last place in the major leagues, trailing Houston by 14 games. The Astros, meanwhile, maintain a narrow two-game lead over the Texas Rangers in their division.

Cristian Javier will make his seventh start of the season on Tuesday. He has a 1-3 record with a 6.68 ERA, and Houston has lost his last five starts. George Klassen is set to pitch for the Angels, a rookie with a 1-1 record and a 5.52 ERA in four starts.

Wednesday's matchup for the Astros is uncertain, with possibilities including a bullpen game or starts from Ethan Pecko or Tatsuya Imai. The Angels will counter with rookie Walbert Ureña, who boasts an impressive 8-8 record and a 2.67 ERA.

On Thursday, Peter Lambert will take the mound for Houston. He has a 8-6 record with a 3.11 ERA and has been a reliable workhorse for the team. The Angels are scheduled to start Grayson Rodriguez, who has struggled with a 7.17 ERA this season.