Alec Burleson Player Props: Cardinals vs Royals 8/9

Photo Credit: © Jeff Curry-USA TODAY Sports

Game Summary

The St. Louis Cardinals (59-57) are set to face off against the Kansas City Royals (64-52) on August 9, 2024, at Kauffman Stadium in Kansas City, Missouri. This matchup marks the beginning of a two-game series between these two teams. The Cardinals are currently sitting second in the NL Central and are looking to improve their road record, which stands at 28-30. They have been inconsistent lately, going 5-5 in their last ten games and managing to outscore opponents by just five runs.

On the other hand, the Royals have been in solid form, boasting a record of 7-3 in their last ten games, with a .277 batting average and a 3.36 ERA. Kansas City has demonstrated a strong home-field advantage, holding a 37-24 record at home. They have also excelled when hitting multiple home runs, with a 24-10 record in such games. This season, the teams have faced each other twice prior, with each team winning one game.

Key players to watch include Bobby Witt Jr. for the Royals, who has been a standout performer with 22 home runs and 84 RBIs, and Alec Burleson of the Cardinals, who has also shown his power with 19 home runs. With both teams battling for playoff positioning, this matchup promises to be exciting.

Player Prop Odds

For Alec Burleson, the prop odds are as follows:

• Batter Doubles: Over 0.5 (+280)
• Batter RBIs: Over 0.5 (+155)
• Batter Runs Scored: Over 0.5 (-125)
• Batter Singles: Over 0.5 (-160)

Player Analysis

Alec Burleson has emerged as a key contributor for the Cardinals this season. With a batting average of .253 and 19 home runs, he has shown the ability to drive in runs and score. His recent form has been encouraging, and he has been particularly effective against right-handed pitchers, which will be crucial in this matchup against Royals' starter Michael Lorenzen.

Burleson's stats indicate that he has the potential to hit for power as well as average, making him a dual threat at the plate. His ability to get on base and create scoring opportunities is vital for the Cardinals, especially as they look to pressure Lorenzen early in the game.

Opposing Analysis

Michael Lorenzen will take the mound for the Royals, bringing a 3.69 ERA and 1.28 WHIP into the matchup. Lorenzen has been effective this season, but he has shown vulnerability against left-handed hitters. Burleson, being a lefty, might have an advantageous matchup here. The Cardinals’ lineup has been known to capitalize on mistakes, and if Lorenzen struggles with his command, Burleson could find himself in a prime position to deliver key hits.

The Royals' offense has been led by Bobby Witt Jr., who excels at getting on base and driving in runs. However, with Burleson’s potential to excel against Lorenzen, it will be interesting to see how this matchup unfolds.

Pitching Probables

Team Previews

St. Louis Cardinals

The Cardinals have had an overall record of 59-57 and currently rank 9th in runs scored with 554. Their batting average of .253 ranks them 8th in the league. Despite a shaky pitching staff with a 3.77 ERA (5th in MLB), their offense remains potent, especially when they hit multiple home runs.

Kansas City Royals

The Royals, with a record of 64-52, rank 22nd in runs scored (481) and have a batting average of .246 (13th). Their pitching staff has a 4.09 ERA, ranking them 19th in the league. Despite their lower offensive rankings, they have been able to capitalize on opportunities, especially at home.

Team Injuries

Recent Games

Prediction