Cardinals lost a tough one last night to the Braves in extra innings as we lost on our POD. Cardinals had multiple opportunities in extra to end this game and they could not come up with the key hit. However, this team bounces back well as they are 22-7 in their last 29 following a loss and 17-6 in their last 23 game 2's while the Braves are 2-9 in their last 11 as an under dog.
The pitching match up is an intriguing one with Adam Wainwright taking on Brandon Beachy. Beachy has been outstanding posting a 1.62 ERA, but his xFIP at 3.93 tells a different story and highlights how he's been a bit lucky with a .225 BABIP. The Cardinals are #1 home team in terms of BABIP and they did not slow down yesterday either. Beachy will have his hands full here today. 80% of his pitches are fastballs and sliders which make it a lot easier for hitters to come to the plate with a strategy.
Wainwright takes the mound after finally looking like himself in his last start as he now posts a 2.70 ERA over his last 3 after a rough start. He actually has a better xFIP at 2.67. What's really been his downfall is the .BABIP with a.319 and 1.87 HR/9. I expect him to come out and pitch great for the Cardinals who need a rebound win. He is 6-0 with a 2.48 ERA in 6 starts vs. the Braves and over his last 35 home starts before this season Wainwright posted a 1.92 ERA. We have an elite pitcher with an elite offense following a loss at home and -122 odds? I'll take that every day of the week. On top of that the Cardinals are 21-6 in their last 27 home games vs. a RH starter where they are ranked 3rd in OPS this year while the Braves are 1-7 in their last 8 games at Busch Stadium.
