Alec Burleson Player Props: Rays vs Cardinals 8/6

Photo Credit: © David Banks-USA TODAY Sports

Game Summary

The Tampa Bay Rays (57-54) are set to face the St. Louis Cardinals (57-56) in a compelling three-game series opener at Busch Stadium in St. Louis on August 6, 2024, at 7:45 PM EDT. Both teams find themselves in the midst of competitive playoff races, making this matchup critical. The Cardinals have struggled recently, going 4-6 in their last 10 games with a batting average of .239, while the Rays have fared slightly better at 6-4 with a 1.82 ERA during the same stretch. Historically, the Rays and Cardinals have faced each other infrequently, with this being their first matchup of the season. On the offensive front, the Cardinals boast some standout performers, including Masyn Winn, who has accumulated 18 doubles and 9 home runs this season. Paul Goldschmidt, despite a slow recent stretch, remains a key figure in their lineup. The Rays counter with Yandy Diaz, who has been consistent with 23 doubles and 10 home runs. The stakes are high as both teams look to gain momentum moving into the latter part of the season. With the weather expected to be mostly sunny and a temperature hovering around 86°F, conditions are favorable for a high-scoring affair, especially given the offensive talent on both sides.

Player Prop Odds

For Alec Burleson, the following player prop odds are available:

• Batter Doubles: Over 0.5 (+400)
• Batter Hits: Over 1.5 (+260)
• Batter RBIs: Over 0.5 (+165)
• Batter Runs Scored: Over 0.5 (+125)
• Batter Singles: Over 0.5 (-135)
• Batter Total Bases: Over 1.5 (+145)

Player Analysis

Alec Burleson has exhibited solid hitting skills throughout the season, with a batting average of .277, making him one of the more reliable hitters in the Cardinals' lineup. With 64 RBIs to his name, Burleson has shown his ability to drive in runs when it matters most. His plate discipline is evident with a respectable on-base percentage, and he has a knack for getting on base, especially against right-handed pitchers. Given that the Rays will be starting Jeffrey Springs, a left-handed pitcher, Burleson's chances of success improve significantly, as he has historically performed better against lefties.

Opposing Analysis

The Tampa Bay Rays' pitching staff has been impressive this season, particularly with their strikeout rates. Jeffrey Springs, the probable starter for the Rays, has struggled with a 4.91 ERA and a 1.91 WHIP in limited appearances this year, which could lead to opportunities for Burleson to capitalize on mistakes. However, the Rays' bullpen is one of the best in the league, and their ability to shut down hitters late in games cannot be overlooked.

Pitching Probables

Team Previews

The Tampa Bay Rays have a current record of 57-54 and rank fourth in the AL East. They have a team batting average of .245, which ranks them 13th in the league. Their pitching staff has performed well, posting an ERA of 4.10, which places them 18th overall. The Rays have experienced success in close games, with a record of 19-11 in one-run decisions.

The St. Louis Cardinals are slightly ahead at 57-56, sitting third in the NL Central. Their hitting has been a bit inconsistent, with a collective average of .245, ranking them 7th in the NL. The Cardinals' pitching has been a point of concern, with a 4.00 ERA that ranks them 15th in the league. They have struggled defensively, allowing a significant number of runs in recent games.

Team Injuries

Recent Games

Prediction