Los Angeles Dodgers vs. St. Louis Cardinals 8/16/24 – In a potential firecracker show match and strategic drama, the Los Angeles Dodgers (71-51) faced the St. Louis Cardinals (60-61) under the lights at Busch Stadium this Friday night. The season is moving towards playoffs and therefore each game starts to have an extra weight of importance. This specific meeting will act as not only showing the current form of both sides but also being a great chance for lovers to come and watch high-quality baseball free of charge. The clash today is a must watch for anyone looking for a free baseball game pick that gives insight into possible outcomes based on thorough analysis and trends from the present season.
Los Angeles Dodgers vs. St. Louis Cardinals 8/16/24 Game Info |
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| When: | Friday, August 16, 2024 at 8:15 PM ET |
| Where: | Busch Stadium |
| TV: | MLBN |
| Stream: | MLB.TV |
Los Angeles Dodgers (71-51) vs. St. Louis Cardinals (60-61)
Boasting a hefty .252 batting average and an even more impressive slugging percentage of .434, the Dodgers come into this game with some ability to generate offensive noise. This power at the dish has translated to 598 runs and 162 long balls, making them one of the most formidable teams in the league. What is particularly remarkable is their on-base ability, as underlined by their .332 on base percentage. Tactics like this have been valuable in creating scores consistently for them but also in another match such as Nationals-Phillies game it will be effective.
But the Cardinals have had a different season with a 60-61 record speaking to their inconsistency. Their average hitting is just slightly lower at .246 accompanied by a slugging percentage of .386. Although they’ve managed 496 runs and 123 home runs, their on base percentage of .309 means that rallies are difficult to sustain; much like today’s Seattle Mariners vs Pittsburgh Pirates MLB game where they will produce and take advantage of scoring opportunities. In terms of statistics, this sets up an interesting contest between a high-powered offense and one seeking consistency and rhythm.
Justin Wrobleski (0-1, 4.05 ERA) vs. Miles Mikolas (8-9, 5.30 ERA)
Dodger’s starter, Justin Wrobleski, although a newbie with only 20 innings pitched to his name, has shown potential with an ERA of 4.05 and WHIP of 1.2; he thus far has fanned seventeen batters. Whether or not he will be able to sustain this performance in the face of a line-up that can exploit any pitchers’ mistake is where this game tonight comes into play as it could set the course for the rest of the match for Dodgers. However, he may not have adequate experience and might end up giving up too many balls over the fence (4 home runs in 20 innings) in high-stakes situations.
For St Louis Cardinals, Miles Mikolas takes his place on the mound with a season that has been more about stamina than dominance as reflected by a 5.30 ERA over 132.1 innings pitched this year alone; He will need to tap into his veteran knowledge and beat around dodgers lineup but as far as allowing hits (149 hits allowed) and long balls go (18 HRs), it is likely to become something deterring about him. Mikolas is going to have to rely on experience and pitch well in order to keep them close, especially given how aggressive their lineup can be.
MLB Odds/Point Spread: Los Angeles Dodgers -1.5 +116, Total Odds: 9.5
Considering the current betting odds, the Dodgers are slightly favored, reflecting their stronger season performance. However, the point spread and moneyline suggest that this could be a closely contested game, likely hinging on the performances of the starting pitchers and key hitters.
Los Angeles Dodgers Betting Trends
The Dodgers have shown a strong trend towards high-scoring games, with the total going OVER in 10 of their last 15 games. Their ability to score is complemented by a tendency for games to open up when they play on the road, seen in the total going OVER in 5 of their last 7 away games against the Cardinals. They are 5-2 SU in their last 7 games, indicating good form.
St. Louis Cardinals Betting Trends
The Cardinals, meanwhile, have struggled recently, going 1-5 SU in their last 6 games. The total has also gone OVER in 9 of their last 13 home games, which could suggest vulnerabilities in their pitching staff and an opportunity for the Dodgers to exploit.
Los Angeles Dodgers vs. St. Louis Cardinals 8/16/24 Betting Picks
Given the analysis of statistics and betting trends, our suggestion is toward an expectation of a game full of goals with the Dodgers probably covering the spread. Given the recent form that has been demonstrated by the Dodgers along with their offensive power, there is a strong likelihood that they will take over this game particularly when viewed in light of Cardinals’ most recent weaknesses.
The betters in search for maximum value may consider taking over total runs on this one together with backing up dodgers by at least two runs. This could be a profitable selection and also fits well into the top sports handicapping strategies where trends and match-ups can provide great chances to wager.
Free Pick and Prediction: Los Angeles Dodgers 7, St. Louis Cardinals 4.