The Los Angeles Angels look like a live underdog in the first game of a doubleheader at Houston Tuesday afternoon. They have dropped six of their last seven, but Houston had lost three straight to San Diego before pounding the Halos in an 11-4 win on Monday.

Angels' lefty Jose Suarez (0-1, 33.75 ERA) can't possibly be as poor as he was in season debut when he gave up five runs on five hits in 1 1/3 innings against the Giants. Suarez made four appearances (three starts) versus the Astros last season, posting a 4.80 ERA through 15 innings of work but also recorded 15 Ks.

Rookie right-hander Cristian Javier (2-1, 3.55 ERA) is expected to take the ball for Houston in the opener. Javier gave up three runs on seven hits (two homers) in just 3 2/3 innings at Colorado last time out.

As per the new MLB rules for double-headers the contests will last only seven innings, a rule I think will favor the underdog as a couple of timely swings could win you the game.

8* play on Los Angeles Angels.