Game Preview No. 158: Houston Astros at Seattle Mariners

Houston Astros (83-74) vs. Seattle Mariners (74-83)

September 29, 2015 9:10 PM CDT

TV:Root Sports SW, MLB.TV
Radio: KBME 790 AM, KLAT 1010 AM

Mariners SB Nation Blog: Lookout Landing

Pitching Matchup:

RHP Mike Fiers (7-10, 3.66 ERA, 1.26 WHIP) vs. LHP Vidal Nuno (1-5, 3.69 ERA, 1.27 WHIP)

Preview:

The Astros started their season-defining road trip well last night, with solid pitching throughout and just enough offense to secure their third straight victory. Mike Fiers takes the mound tonight, looking to keep the momentum going and solidify the Astros playoff position.

Fiers has held opponents to a .177 average and posted a solid 2.44 ERA since joining the Astros. This will be his first time facing the Mariners and pitching at Safeco Field. He's striking out nearly a batter per inning on the season.

The Astros will face left-handed starter Vidal Nuno, who has four appearances against the Astros this year. In his one start (the other three were out of the bullpen), Nuno allowed five runs on seven hits and two walks in six innings. The Astros touched him up for three home runs in that start.

Nuno is also pitching on short rest, taking the spot of Mariners starter James Paxton who is dealing with a torn fingernail.

With another lefty starter on the hill, it's likely that the Astros hottest hitter will be back in the lineup. Chris Carter has homered in three straight games, and over his last seven games he's hitting .467 with five home runs.

With their playoff lives in the balance, this is another crucial game for the Astros. They'll look to get off to another fast start against Nuno.

Astros Lineup:

Astros lineup pic.twitter.com/z7v6ieMsLW

— Brian McTaggart ⚾️ (@brianmctaggart) September 29, 2015