Preview: Astros at Athletics, Friday, April 3, 2026

WEST SACRAMENTO, Calif. (Interstat) — The Houston Astros, riding a four-game winning streak, will open a three-game series against the struggling Athletics on Friday night at Sutter Health Park.

The Astros (5-2) arrive after sweeping a three-game set from the Boston Red Sox, including a 6-4 victory Wednesday. Houston’s offense has averaged 7.3 runs per game during its streak.

Oakland (1-5) has lost five of its first six, dropping two of three in both Toronto and Atlanta. The Athletics were held to one run in a 5-1 loss to the Braves on Wednesday.

Right-hander Cristian Javier (0-0) is set to start for Houston against Athletics left-hander Jeffrey Springs (0-0). Both pitchers will be making their 2026 debuts.

A player to watch for Houston is right-hander Mike Burrows, who earned the win Wednesday with five solid innings (5.0 IP, 5 H, 2 ER, 6 K). For Oakland, reliever Luis Medina has provided scoreless outings in his last two appearances, including two innings against Atlanta.

In Wednesday’s win, Carlos Correa hit a three-run homer for the Astros. For the Athletics, Shea Langeliers homered in the loss.

The forecast calls for clear skies and 64 degrees at first pitch.

According to Interstat, the Astros are projected to win with a 55.6% probability, and its game simulator predicts an 8-2 Houston victory. Betting markets list Houston as a -1.5 run favorite with an over/under of 10 runs.

Following this series, the Astros continue a road trip in Colorado and Seattle. The Athletics will embark on a six-game East Coast trip to face the New York Yankees and New York Mets.