Houston at Boston

Boston comes off an impressive series win against the Yankees, but Houston is still the defending champion and the Astros have won five of the last eight meetings. Justin Verlander was the crucial factor in last year's World Series title and he goes in Game 1 today. Verlander was 16-9 with a 2.52 ERA this season and he has plenty of postseason experience going back to his days with Detroit. The right-hander was the winning pitcher in Game 1 of the ALDS against Cleveland, allowing two runs on two hits in 5 1/3 innings. He faced the Red Sox once this year and gave up two runs on three hits in six innings. Chris Sale made one start against the Astros this year and allowed four runs on six hits in six innings. Houston has won 11 of its last 14 games versus left-handed starters and 39 of its last 52 road contests. Also, the Astros have won 17 of Verlander's last 20 road starts and his last six starts overall. Play the Astros to take Game 1.