Josh Bell Player Props: Diamondbacks vs Pirates 8/2

Josh Bell Player Props: Diamondbacks vs Pirates 8/2

Photo Credit: © Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports

Game Summary

The Arizona Diamondbacks (58-51) are set to face off against the Pittsburgh Pirates (55-53) on August 2, 2024, at PNC Park in Pittsburgh. This matchup marks the beginning of a critical three-game series, with both teams vying for playoff positioning in their respective divisions. The Diamondbacks currently sit third in the NL West, while the Pirates are third in the NL Central.

Recent performances suggest that Arizona comes into this game with a slight edge, having gone 7-3 in their last ten games, boasting a .296 batting average and an impressive +22 run differential. In contrast, the Pirates have struggled to find consistency, with a 5-5 record in their last ten, a .222 batting average, and a 2.86 ERA.

This game will also feature a compelling pitching matchup. The Diamondbacks will send Brandon Pfaadt (5-6, 3.92 ERA, 1.11 WHIP, 115 strikeouts) to the mound against the Pirates' Luis Ortiz (5-2, 2.75 ERA, 1.14 WHIP, 63 strikeouts). Ortiz has been particularly effective at home, contributing to the Pirates' solid home record of 26-26.

Historically, these two teams have had a competitive rivalry, with the Diamondbacks winning two of the first three matchups this season. In their last meeting, the Diamondbacks edged out the Pirates 4-3. Expect an intense game as both teams look to capitalize on their opportunities and secure a series victory.

 

 

Player Prop Odds

Josh Bell Player Props:

• Batter Doubles: Over 0.5 (+270)
• Batter Hits: Over 1.5 (+190)
• Batter RBIs: Over 0.5 (-115)
• Batter Runs Scored: Over 0.5 (-135)
• Batter Singles: Over 0.5 (-145)
• Batter Total Bases: Over 1.5 (-110)

Player Analysis

Josh Bell has been a consistent contributor for the Pittsburgh Pirates this season. Currently, he carries a batting average of .265 with 16 home runs and 58 RBIs. His ability to get on base and drive in runs makes him a vital asset in the Pirates' lineup.

In recent games, Bell has shown signs of heating up. He has hit safely in 7 of his last 10 games, with an impressive .320 batting average during that stretch. His power numbers have also been on the rise, hitting 4 home runs in the last two weeks. With the Diamondbacks starting a pitcher like Pfaadt, who has given up 15 home runs this season, Bell could find favorable matchups to exploit.

Opposing Analysis

The Diamondbacks will be looking to Pfaadt to deliver a quality start against a Pirates lineup that can be explosive when at their best. The Pirates are averaging 5.5 runs per game when they hit two or more home runs, indicating that they can capitalize on mistakes from opposing pitchers. Pfaadt’s tendency to give up long balls could play into the hands of Bell and the Pirates' power hitters.

Pitching Probables

Player	W-L	ERA	WHIP	Strikeouts
Brandon Pfaadt (ARI)	5-6	3.92	1.11	115
Luis Ortiz (PIT)	5-2	2.75	1.14	63

Team Previews

Arizona Diamondbacks

The Diamondbacks have a solid offensive lineup, currently ranked second in the National League with a .258 batting average. They have a good mix of power and speed that allows them to score runs in various ways. Despite their recent success, they have been inconsistent on the road with a 27-26 record.

Pittsburgh Pirates

The Pirates have a slightly lower batting average of .258 but have been effective at home. Their lineup features several players capable of hitting for power, including Bryan Reynolds and Josh Bell. Their pitching has been a mixed bag, with a team ERA of 4.48, which puts pressure on their offense to perform.

Team Injuries

Player	Position	Injury Status
Joshua Palacios	OF	10-Day IL (hamstring)
Christian Walker	1B	10-Day IL (oblique)
Daulton Jefferies	RP	60-Day IL (elbow)

Recent Games

Date	Opponent	Result
July 30	Washington	W 17-0
July 29	Washington	W 9-8
July 28	Pittsburgh	L 6-5
July 27	Pittsburgh	W 9-5
July 26	Pittsburgh	W 4-3

Prediction

Given the current form of Josh Bell and the favorable matchups against Brandon Pfaadt, the prediction for tonight's game is that Bell will go Over 0.5 RBIs. With the Pirates needing to capitalize on scoring opportunities at home, Bell's ability to drive in runs makes this a solid bet.

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