Dodgers at Astros Showdown: Must-watch storylines and bold series predictions for July 26-28

This weekend will mark the Los Angeles Dodgers' first trip to Minute Maid Park in Houston since the 2017 World Series. For months, several fans have had the series circled on their calendars, expecting that the spectacle will live up to the hype.

Indeed, the Houston Astros and Los Angeles Dodgers constitute two of the most well-known clubs due to the considerable firepower resident on both rosters. Today, we will be examining some storylines to keep in mind as you take in this Blockbuster weekend set.

Dodgers vs Astros - Top Storylines and Prediction

3. Surging 'Stros

Friday's season opener will mark the first time in 2024 that the Houston Astros have played at home while leading the AL West division. After starting the season 12-24, the Astros trailed the Seattle Mariners by 10 games on June 18.

"The @Astros have sole possession of first place in the AL West for the first time in 2024." - MLB

However, now 15-9 since June 25, the Astros are now sitting back on top. Now the MLB team with the best average, Houston's ascent has been fueled by bats like Yordan Alvarez, Yanier Diaz, and Jose Altuve, all of whom are hitting over .300 in the past month of play.

2 Lux-urious Hitting

After getting diposed from the shortstop position for a dreadful spring performance, Gavin Lux is back in the lineup, and making a huge impact. After missing all of last season due to injury, the 26 year-old Wisconsinite has hit a team-best .367 with two home runs and seven RBIs in his past 10 games. Lux also recorded a pair of RBIs in his team's recent series against the San Francisco Giants.

"Gavin Lux leaves the yard for the second straight game. It's his 4th straight extra base hit and his fifth home run of the year. Lux is is slugging .800 in his last 10 games. Perfect time for him to get hot." - Doug McKain

Moreover, Lux' fielding has been improving. In 85 games at second base this season, Lux has committed just three errors. In the recent absence of Mookie Betts, Lux' reliable glove has been tremendously valuable for the Dodgers.

1. Looming Deadline

For both clubs, the fact that the trade deadline is scheduled for two days after the end of the series must weigh heavy. Although both will likely be buyers, it is unsure to what extent.

Already, the Astros have reportedly checked in on top arms like Zach Eflin of the Tampa Bay Rays and Garrett Crochet of the White Sox. The Dodgers, meanwhile, appear to have their postseason lineup set, although they could certainly use a relief arm, or two.

Prediction

While the Dodgers certainly boast a laundry list of unique capabilities, the Houston Astros are a hot team right now. With Yoshinobu Yamamoto and Tyler Glasnow unlikely to pitch for LA in this series, watch out for Houston bats to take advantage.

Based on the current trends, one can expect the Astros to take two of the three fixtures.