Two teams smack dab in the middle of the AL wild-card race meet Friday night when the Seattle Mariners battle the Houston Astros.

On the mound for Seattle will be Bryce Miller (7-4, 4.04 ERA), while the Astros counter with red-hot J.P. France (9-3, 2.74 ERA).

Miller has put up back-to-back strong outings after getting blasted for 12 runs in his two prior starts.

That’s been the pattern for Miller this season.

He’s allowed two runs or fewer 12 times but given up at least three runs in six other starts.

Miller did perform well in his lone outing against the Astros this year where he pitched six scoreless innings in a 3-1 Seattle win. 

France has allowed two runs or fewer in 12 of 17 starts.

One of those outings came against the Mariners where the righty gave up two hits and no runs in five innings.

The Astros have been a bettor’s best friend with France on the mound recently, winning eight straight games when he starts. 

The Astros have won France’s last eight starts by a combined score of 61-26.

I think that trend continues on Friday. 

The pick: Astros moneyline (-140, Caesars Sportsbook)