This article is part of our DraftKings MLB series.
The Astros pulled off a big win in Game 3 on Friday, getting themselves back into the World Series. They'll look to keep that momentum going and try to tie up the series Saturday in Game 4. This contest also brings another opportunity to play the showdown contest on DraftKings, so let's discuss how things might play out.
Starting Pitchers
The Nationals will go the route of a more traditional starting pitcher, deploying Patrick Corbin ($10,400) at home. He actually pitched out of the bullpen in Game 1, marking his fourth appearance out of the pen this postseason. His last start came in Game 4 of the NLCS against the Cardinals when he allowed four runs across five innings. On the plus side, he recorded 12 strikeouts in that contest. With his strikeout upside, he's still a great option despite having to face the Astros' dangerous lineup, even in the captain's spot.
Having already thrown their three best starters in this series, the Astros will go the bullpen route for this game. The last time they did that was in the ALCS against the Yankees. Brad Peacock ($8,000) started that contest and allowed one run across 1.2 innings, but he won't start this matchup. However, he could still appear later in the game. Jose Urquidy ($7,800) pitched 2.2 innings in that game versus the Yankees, allowing one run and recording five strikeouts. He's going to start Saturday and will likely log multiple innings. With that being said, it's difficult to envision him pitching more than three or four innings in the best case scenario, so adding him to your entry will come with plenty of risk.
Correlations
The Nationals figure to be the most popular lineup to deploy given the Astros rolling with their bullpen. The duo of Anthony Rendon ($11,000) and Juan Soto ($10,800) carry tremendous upside, but they will also do a number on your budget. As far as cheaper options go, don't sleep on Adam Eaton ($9,200). His bat has caught fire since the start of the NLCS, hitting .345 with a home run, two doubles and a triple across his last seven games. Ryan Zimmerman ($7,400) has also enjoyed a nice run in the playoffs, hitting .302 with two home runs and three doubles.
One-Offs
If you want to take a chance on Corbin having an off night, rolling with Jose Altuve ($9,400) could prove to be profitable. He torched left-handed pitching during the regular season with a 176 wRC+ against. He's also been extremely productive in the playoffs, hitting .362 with five home runs and six doubles across 14 games. Alex Bregman's ($9,000) playoff struggles have helped reduce his price tag to a very reasonable level given his upside and the fact he posted a 205 wRC+ versus southpaws during the regular season, so he's another Astro to consider for your entry.
