This is the first and only series this season between the two clubs. Last year, the Marlins hosted the Astros for three games from August 14 through August 16, losing the opener before winning the final two. In the final game, a 12-5 Houston victory, Houston scored five in the first and another six in the seventh for the win. Alex Bregman, Kyle Tucker, Yordan Alvarez, Chas McCormick, and Mauricio Dubón collected two hits each, including homers for Bregman (19), Tucker (24) and McCormick (17). Justin Verlander (8-6, 3.36) allowed five runs in as many innings but finished with the win.