Kevin Newman Player Props: Diamondbacks vs Guardians 8/5

A Plus Picks
Aug 5, 2024, 12:51:21 PM

Photo Credit: © Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports

Game Summary

The Arizona Diamondbacks will face off against the Cleveland Guardians on August 5, 2024, at Progressive Field in Cleveland, Ohio. This matchup marks the beginning of a three-game series between these two competitive teams. The Diamondbacks, currently holding a record of 60-52, sit third in the NL West, while the Guardians boast a remarkable 67-44 record, leading the AL Central. The Guardians have been particularly strong at home with a 35-17 record, and they have shown resilience, going 28-14 in games without allowing a home run.

In contrast, the Diamondbacks are 29-27 on the road and have been in fine form over their last ten games, winning eight of them, which indicates a team that is gaining momentum. The previous matchup between the two teams this season is yet to occur, making this a fresh encounter. Players to watch include the Guardians' Steven Kwan, who has been a consistent performer with 14 doubles and 11 home runs, and Jose Ramirez, who has been on fire recently with five home runs in his last ten games. For the Diamondbacks, Lourdes Gurriel Jr. and Ketel Marte have also been impactful, with Marte hitting six home runs over the same span. The anticipation for this game is heightened as both teams look to solidify their playoff positions.

Player Prop Odds

Batter Doubles: Over 0.5 (+350)
Batter Hits: Over 1.5 (+186)
Batter RBIs: Over 0.5 (+175)
Batter Runs Scored: Over 0.5 (+110)
Batter Singles: Under 0.5 (-150)
Batter Total Bases: Over 1.5 (+141), Under 1.5 (-185)

Player Analysis

Kevin Newman, the versatile infielder for the Guardians, has shown flashes of brilliance this season. With a batting average hovering around .290, Newman has been a vital part of the Guardians' offense. His ability to get on base consistently, combined with a keen eye for pitches, makes him a player to watch in this matchup. Newman has accumulated 25 extra-base hits this season, including 10 doubles and 5 home runs, showcasing his potential for impactful hits. Additionally, he has demonstrated an ability to drive in runs, with 40 RBIs to his name, which makes the prop bet of over 0.5 RBIs intriguing for this game.

Opposing Analysis

The Diamondbacks will send Zac Gallen to the mound, a pitcher who has been solid throughout the season with a 3.56 ERA and 92 strikeouts. Gallen's ability to limit hard contact and control the game could present challenges for Newman. However, Gallen has shown vulnerability at times, allowing 8 home runs and a WHIP of 1.25, which could open the door for Newman to capitalize with a timely hit or two. If Newman can find a way to get on base against Gallen, he could easily surpass his prop odds.

Pitching Probables

Player	W-L	ERA	Strikeouts
Zac Gallen (ARI)	9-5	3.56	92
Logan Allen (CLE)	8-4	5.67	76

Team Previews

The Arizona Diamondbacks have had a productive season thus far, primarily due to their offensive production, ranking 12th in the league in runs scored with 518. Their lineup has been bolstered by players like Gurriel Jr. and Marte, who have consistently delivered in clutch situations. The Diamondbacks also boast a solid pitching staff, currently ranked 5th in the league with an ERA of 3.71, which will be crucial against the Guardians’ potent offense.

The Cleveland Guardians, on the other hand, have excelled in their offensive output, ranking 3rd in the league with 575 runs scored. Their batting average of .258 ranks 4th overall, indicating a cohesive lineup that can challenge any pitcher. With a strong relief pitching corps and some of the best fielding metrics in the league, the Guardians are well-rounded and capable of making a deep playoff run if they maintain their form.

Team Injuries

Player	Position	Injury Status
Eduardo Rodriguez	SP	Expected to be out until at least Aug 6
Matthew Boyd	SP	Expected to be out until at least Aug 11

Recent Games

Arizona Diamondbacks

Opponent	Score	W/L
vs Washington	W9-8	W
vs Washington	W17-0	W
vs Washington	W5-4	W
@ Pittsburgh	L4-2	L
@ Pittsburgh	W6-5	W

Cleveland Guardians

Opponent	Score	W/L
vs Baltimore	L9-5	L
vs Baltimore	L7-4	L
vs Baltimore	W10-3	W
vs Baltimore	W8-4	W
vs Philadelphia	W3-1	W

Prediction

Pick: Kevin Newman Over 0.5 RBIs (+175)

With Zac Gallen on the mound, Newman has a favorable opportunity to capitalize on his hitting ability against a solid but occasionally vulnerable pitcher. Given Newman's recent form and the Guardians' strong lineup, the over on 0.5 RBIs presents a valuable betting opportunity. Expect him to come through in a clutch situation, driving in runs and contributing to a potential Guardians victory.