Daily MLB Spread Picks: Los Angeles Dodgers vs Pittsburgh Pirates

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Game Summary

The Los Angeles Dodgers (66-49) will host the Pittsburgh Pirates (56-58) for the first game of a three-game series at Dodger Stadium on August 9, 2024, at 10:10 PM EDT. The Dodgers currently lead the NL West and have a strong home record of 35-22. They are coming off a tough stretch, going 4-6 in their last ten games, but they remain a potent offensive team with 152 home runs, the highest in the National League. Their star player, Shohei Ohtani, is having a remarkable season with 34 home runs and a .302 batting average. The Pirates, sitting third in the NL Central, have also struggled recently, going 4-6 in their last ten games. They have a decent road record of 29-27 and will look to capitalize on any lapses from the Dodgers. This matchup marks the fourth meeting between these two teams this season. Historically, the Dodgers have fared well against the Pirates, and with their strong offensive capabilities, they will be aiming to gain momentum heading into the latter part of the season.

Odds and Betting Lines

Pitching Probables

Team Previews

Los Angeles Dodgers

The Dodgers have been a powerhouse this season, leading the National League in home runs and boasting a potent offense. Their batting average stands at .252, with 983 hits resulting in 563 runs. Led by Shohei Ohtani, who is hitting .302 with 34 home runs and 81 RBIs, they have multiple players capable of changing the game with their bats. The pitching staff is also formidable, with Jack Flaherty having a stellar season, recording a 2.80 ERA and 140 strikeouts. However, injuries have taken a toll on the team, with several key players on the injured list, including Mookie Betts and Max Muncy. Despite these injuries, the Dodgers are still a top contender, especially at home where they play well.

Pittsburgh Pirates

The Pirates enter this game struggling with consistency, currently sitting third in the NL Central. Their offense has been less potent than the Dodgers', with a batting average of .234 and 482 runs scored. Bryan Reynolds stands out as the team's offensive leader, contributing with 19 home runs and 68 RBIs. Despite having a solid pitching staff, including Mitch Keller, who has a 3.20 ERA, the Pirates have faltered under pressure in crucial games. Their relief pitching has also faced challenges, and they will need to step up if they want to compete against the high-powered Dodgers. With injuries affecting their depth, the Pirates will rely heavily on their starters to keep the game close.

Team Injuries

Los Angeles Dodgers

Pittsburgh Pirates

Betting Trends

• The Dodgers are 4-6 in their last ten games but have a strong home record.
• The Pirates have also gone 4-6 in their last ten, struggling to find consistency.
• Los Angeles has a winning percentage of .714 when scoring five or more runs.
• Pittsburgh is 35-11 when scoring five or more runs this season.

Recent Games

Los Angeles Dodgers

Pittsburgh Pirates

Team Rankings

Significant Betting Stats

• The Dodgers have a 66-49 overall record, while the Pirates are at 56-58.
• Los Angeles is 35-22 at home this season.
• Pittsburgh has struggled against teams with winning records.
• Dodgers lead the league in home runs with 152.
• Flaherty has been effective against teams with losing records.
• Pirates have a 4.55 ERA over their last ten games.
• Dodgers are 61-53-1 against the over/under this season.
• Pirates are 53-57-4 against the over/under this season.
• Los Angeles has a winning percentage of .714 when scoring five or more runs.
• Pittsburgh is 35-11 when scoring at least five runs.

Weather

Weather: Mostly sunny, temperature: 78°F

Prediction

Pick: Dodgers -1.5