Happy Friday Junior. We’ve basically made it to the weekend and we’ve got a good looking slate to have fun with. With just eight games left on tonight’s MLB schedule, let’s jump right into it.
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MLB Pitcher Report | July 3
Dodger Dominance Continues
In the first two games of this series with the Whitesox, the Dodgers have outscored the Sox 11-5; including a 3-run 9th inning to walk it off last night. Today the Whitesox will have Aaron Civale on the mound. He’s started just three games for the Whitesox this year, recording a 4.50 ERA and has yet to record a win with his new squad.
The Diamondbacks will host the Giants for game four of this NL West battle. San Francisco recorded their first win of the series last night, winning 6-5 and breaking a 4-game losing streak. Tonight the Giants will faceoff with Brandon Pfaadt. Pfaadt’s 5.27 ERA leaves much to be desired and his 16 home runs allowed don’t inspire confidence.
Lastly, Bryce Elder down in Atlanta. He’s got a 5.82 ERA, he’s allowing opposing hitters to hit .281 and he’s given up 14 total home runs this year. Elder’s struggled with righties this year, allowing nine of the 14 home runs to right handed bats. At home his ERA jumps to 6.61 and he’s letting other team hit .308 in front of the home crowd.
Baseball Flight School – MLB Stadium Report
We can skip over Coors today, the Rockies and Astros are currently in action. Let’s move to Atlanta, where 10 mph winds are blowing directly toward the outfield; temperatures in the mid 80s and two lineups full of big bats.
Next, let’s shift focus to the nation’s capital; Washington D.C. Temperature in the high 80s, very slight wind blowing inwards and low levels of humidity. Not the best conditions but with Irvin taking the mound, there’s always a chance. We’ve seen 26 runs scored so far in this series and it looks like the offense should continue rolling.
Let’s cap it off at the Rogers Centre. The Blue Jays will have the roof open today but we’re going to see 13 mph winds blowing into the stadium. With some big bats on both sides, I wouldn’t be surprised to see some runs in this one.
Our Best MLB Pitcher vs. Batter Bets on the Diamond for Thursday, July 3
Rafael Devers o1.5 Total Bases (-105 via BetOnline)
Rafael Devers, I can’t quit him. Devers is 2/13 so far in this series and 3/24 so far on this road trip. It’s been extremely tough watching Devers since he was traded to the Giants, but tonight feels like a spot where Rafy does damage.
He’s got 12 home runs against right handed pitchers this year and his 26 degree launch angle is perfect for his matchup with Pfaadt today. Pfaadt’s allowing above average barrel rates this year and his average exit velocity of 92.4 mph is near the bottom of the league.
Devers has never faced off with Pfaadt but his 104 mph exit velocity paired with the fact that Pfaadt’s allowed nine home runs to left handed bats this year makes me love this spot for Devers.
Bonus: Rafael Devers Home Run (+340)
Will Smith o1.5 Total Bases (+105 via BetOnline)
We’re giving Shohei the night off, going to his teammate; Will Smith. Smith’s faced Civale just twice in his career, he’s also recorded two home runs against Civale in his career. He’s batting .324 on the season, .361 at home and he’s got 11 home runs to boot.
Smith’s been incredibly consistent for the Dodgers this year we’ve seen Civale struggle against right handed bats all year. He’s allowed righties hit .309 with four of the seven home runs he’s allowed, coming to right handed bats. Smith’s cleared this line in five of his last seven matchups with right handed pitchers, hitting home runs in three of those games.
Bonus: Will Smith Home Run (+340)
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