Game Summary

The Baltimore Orioles (77-58) will face off against the Colorado Rockies (50-85) in Denver on August 30, 2024, at 8:40 p.m. EDT. This matchup marks the beginning of a three-game series between the two teams. The Orioles are currently second in the AL East, while the Rockies sit in fifth place in the NL West. The Orioles have shown strong performance this season, especially on the road where they have a 38-28 record. They have out-hit their opponents in 60 of their games this season, boasting a record of 60-10 in those scenarios.

On the other hand, the Rockies have struggled throughout the season with a 31-35 home record and an overall record of 50-85. They have managed to out-hit their opponents in only 32 games, leading to a record of 32-11 in those situations. The teams will meet for the first time this season, and with both teams looking to improve their standings, this game is crucial for their respective playoff hopes.

Recent performances show that both teams are coming off mixed results. The Orioles have a batting average of .244, ranking 15th in the league, and they have accumulated 1,116 hits this season. Meanwhile, the Rockies have a slightly higher average of .250 and 1,160 hits. Despite their struggles, the Rockies have had standout performances from players like Brenton Doyle and Ezequiel Tovar, while the Orioles rely heavily on Gunnar Henderson and Anthony Santander.

Player Prop Odds

Colton Cowser Prop Odds:

• Batter Hits: Over 1.5 (+200)
• Batter Home Runs: Over 0.5 (+450)
• Batter Total Bases: Over 1.5 (-110)

Player Analysis

Colton Cowser has been a consistent performer for the Orioles this season, particularly in the past ten games where he has maintained a batting average of .270. His ability to find gaps in the outfield has resulted in two doubles, a triple, and two home runs during this stretch. Cowser's overall stats for the season include a decent on-base percentage and a solid number of total bases, making him a player to watch as he faces off against the Rockies' pitching staff.

His season totals are impressive, with Cowser contributing significantly to the lineup. He currently holds a batting average of .262 with 11 home runs and 40 RBIs. His power potential indicates that he could easily surpass the home run prop against a struggling Rockies pitching staff.

Opposing Analysis

The Rockies will send Austin Gomber to the mound, who has struggled this season with a 4.70 ERA and a WHIP of 1.29. Gomber has allowed 143 hits in 138 innings pitched, which could provide Cowser with opportunities to capitalize on mistakes. The Rockies have a tendency to give up home runs, with 26 allowed by Gomber this season, making the home run prop for Cowser particularly enticing. The Orioles lineup is known for its ability to generate runs, especially against pitchers like Gomber who struggle with command.

Prop Analysis

Given Cowser’s recent form and the matchup against Gomber, betting on him to have over 1.5 hits at +200 seems like a solid option. Furthermore, with Gomber’s tendency to give up home runs, the +450 odds for Cowser to hit a home run also presents a compelling opportunity. The total bases prop at -110 is another favorable bet considering Cowser's ability to hit for both power and average.

Starting Pitching Summary - Orioles

Albert Suarez will take the mound for the Orioles, boasting an impressive 3.18 ERA and a 1.27 WHIP this season. With 81 strikeouts in 102 innings pitched, Suarez has demonstrated solid command and the ability to limit hard contact. His recent performances have shown a tendency to pitch well against teams with lower batting averages, which bodes well for the Orioles in this matchup against the Rockies.

Starting Pitching Summary - Rockies

Austin Gomber, the Rockies' starting pitcher, has a record of 4-9 this season with a 4.70 ERA. His struggles have been evident, particularly at home where he has allowed more runs than he has at other venues. With a WHIP of 1.29, he’s been prone to base runners, making him a target for hitters like Cowser.

Bullpen Summary - Orioles

The Orioles bullpen has been reliable this season, particularly in high-leverage situations. With a solid ERA and depth in their relief options, they can be trusted to hold late leads. This could be crucial if the Orioles can provide Suarez with enough run support early in the game.

Bullpen Summary - Rockies

The Rockies bullpen has been inconsistent, with a high ERA that reflects their struggles this season. This could provide the Orioles with additional opportunities to score late if the game remains close.

Team Previews

The Baltimore Orioles are performing well this season, with a strong batting lineup and a pitching staff that has shown improvement. They rank in the middle of the pack in terms of runs scored but have excelled in terms of efficiency. The Rockies, on the other hand, have struggled significantly, particularly with their pitching. They are near the bottom of the league in both ERA and runs allowed, which could play into the Orioles' hands.

Team Injuries

Baltimore Orioles Injuries:

• Ryan Mountcastle - Wrist - 10-Day IL
• Zach Eflin - Shoulder - 15-Day IL
• Grayson Rodriguez - Lat - 15-Day IL
• Jacob Webb - Elbow - 15-Day IL
• Heston Kjerstad - Concussion - 10-Day IL
• Jordan Westburg - Hand - 10-Day IL
• Jorge Mateo - Elbow - 60-Day IL
• ... (additional injuries)

Colorado Rockies Injuries:

• Lucas Gilbreath - Shoulder - 15-Day IL
• German Marquez - Elbow - 60-Day IL
• Victor Vodnik - Shoulder - 15-Day IL
• Kris Bryant - Back - 10-Day IL
• ... (additional injuries)

Recent Games

Baltimore Orioles Recent Games:

Colorado Rockies Recent Games: