Xam’s Gem(s):
Marlins Money Line -122
The Marlins are fighting tooth and nail for a playoff spot, while the Pirates are just waiting for the season to end. Edward Cabrera has had an up and down season, but in his last 7 games (5 starts), he has a 3.10 ERA. Neither the Pirates nor the Marlins have scored a ton of runs this year, so the team that has the better starting pitcher and the better bullpen has the edge in this game. The Marlins got in late due to their last game against the Mets being suspended in the 9th inning, but they should have all of their premium relievers available in this one.
Yankees Money Line -154
The Yankees showed some heart and fight in Canada, taking the series against the rival Blue Jays, who are fighting for a playoff spot. Now, they face one of the worst teams in the league and one of the worst starting pitchers in the league. The Royals have given up the 3rd most runs in baseball this year, and Jordan Lyles is a big reason why. He has a 6.24 ERA on the year. Carlos Rodon has had an up and down year in his own right, including losing a large portion of the year to injuries. However, his last 7 starts have been better, and he should still be motivated to end the season right and show his team and the fans he will be ready to go in 2024.
Reds/Cardinals Over 9 Runs -120
Both starting pitchers in this game have struggled at times this year. Brandon Williamson has a 4.54 ERA on the year, and he’s given up 3 runs or more in 4 of his last 6 starts, including his last 3 road starts. Jake Woodford has been even worse this year, pitching to the tune of a 5.09 ERA in limited innings. He’s been used as a starter and reliever this year, and Woodford hasn’t gone 4 innings in any of his last 6 starts. With plenty of bullpen usage expected, this game can certainly turn into a shootout.
Angels Money Line -138
The Angels have had a very disapointing season, but Chase Silseth has shown signs of promise at times. In his last 7 games (6 starts) he has a 3.41 ERA. He should be motivated to end his season strong and put his best foot forward to show the Angels he can be in the starting rotation next year. Ken Waldichuk, on the other hand, has had a disappointing season. He has a 5.29 ERA, and has given up 8 runs in his last 2 starts. On the road, he has a 6.10 ERA. The Angels have enough offensive firepower and a better bullpen in this game.
Diamondbacks Money Line -120
Arizona’s magic number to clinch a playoff spot is 1, and they have their ace on the mound tonight. Zac Gallen has been awesome this year, pitching to the tune of a 3.49 ERA. He’s also coming off a dominant pitching performance in his last start, pitching 6 scoreless innings. The Diamondbacks faithful will be in a frenzy tonight. The Astros are countering with J.P. France, who’s had a good year overall but been just awful recently. In his last 7 starts, his ERA is 7.08! The Diamondbacks have a really good lineup and should be able to score off France tonight.
Xam’s Prop(s):
Zac Gallen Over 4.5 Ks -134
Gallen has 4 or more strikeouts in 3 of his last 4 starts. Gallen is averaging just under 6.5 Ks per start in his last 7 starts, 6.2 Ks per start over his last 15, and 6.4 Ks per start over his last 30! Gallen has averaged even more strikeouts at home this season. He is averaging over 7.5 Ks per start at home this year. The Diamondbacks should ride him hard tonight, given that they will clinch a playoff spot with a win. This is their moment to not only clinch but then give starters some rest for the rest of the regular season. Houston doesn’t strikeout a lot, but this is a volume play with Gallen here. 5 strikeouts isn’t a lot to ask for from Gallen, and especially not when he’s at home.