The Houston Astros are the last division leader in the American League who has not yet secured a spot in the postseason.

After winning the first game of their four-game weekend series against the Los Angeles Angels, the Astros are one step closer to October baseball with just nine games left.

On Friday, Houston will put its trust in future Hall of Famer Justin Verlander (4-6, 5.20 ERA).

In his last start, Verlander allowed two earned runs on four hits and two walks while recording two strikeouts in five innings against the Angels and earning his fourth win of the season.

It was his second start against Los Angeles this season and he allowed a total of six earned runs on eleven hits and two walks while recording five strikeouts in ten innings against the division rival.

The future Hall of Famer has struggled with injuries and consistency this season, and Friday’s start could help the Astros determine his role for the club in the postseason.

Here’s how Houston will compete on Friday:

1.) 2B Jose Altuve
2.) DH Yordan Alvarez
3.) RF Kyle Tucker
4.) 3B Alex Bregman
5.) 1B Yainer Diaz
6.) SS Jeremy Pena
7.) C Victor Caratini
8.) CF Jake Meyers
9.) LF Mauricio Dubon

SP Justin Verlander

The Angels will counter with experienced left-hander Tyler “Mr. Duck” Anderson (10-13, 3.60 ERA).

In his last start, Anderson allowed four earned runs on seven hits and three walks while recording four strikeouts in five innings against the Astros and suffering his 13th loss of the 2024 season.

On Friday, Mr. Duck will face Houston for the fourth time this season.

In his first three innings, he allowed a total of nine earned runs on 20 hits and six walks, while recording eleven strikeouts in 19 innings, going 1-2 in those starts.

The experienced left-hander started the season strong, posting a 2.97 ERA in 118 innings in 19 games in the first half.

Anderson, however, slacked off in the second half, posting an ERA of 4.97 in 10 starts in 54 1/3 innings.

Here’s what Los Angeles’ lineup will look like on Friday:

1.) LF Taylor Ward
2.) SS Zach Neto
3.) 1B Nolan Schanuel
4.) DH Niko Kavadas
5.) C Matt Thaiss
6.) 3B Eric Wagaman
7.) CF Jordyn Adams
8.) RF Gustavo Campero
9.) 2B Jack Lopez

SP Tyler Anderson

First pitch for Friday’s game is scheduled for 8:10 p.m. EST.

The game will be broadcast on the Space City Home Network and Bally Sports West.

Astros fans can hear the game on KBME 790 AM/94.5 FM HD-2 or TUDN 93.3/KLAT 1010.

You can also watch it with a free trial on fuboTV by signing up here!