MLB Moneyline Odds Analysis: Los Angeles Dodgers vs Pittsburgh Pirates on 8/9

Big Ben Profits
Aug 9, 2024, 9:04:28 PM

Photo Credit: nan

Game Summary

The Los Angeles Dodgers (66-49) will host the Pittsburgh Pirates (56-58) at Dodger Stadium on Friday, August 9, 2024, in the opening game of a three-game series. The Dodgers have been performing strongly at home, holding a record of 35-22, and they lead the National League in home runs with 152. Their recent performance has been a mixed bag, with a 4-6 record in their last ten games, but they remain a formidable opponent with star players like Shohei Ohtani, who has 34 home runs and 81 RBI this season, maintaining a .302 batting average.

On the other hand, the Pirates come into this matchup with a road record of 29-27 and a less impressive overall performance. They've also struggled recently, going 4-6 in their last ten games and being outscored by two runs in that span. The Pirates' success hinges heavily on scoring, boasting a 35-11 record when they manage to score at least five runs in a game. Key players for the Pirates include Bryan Reynolds, who leads the team with 19 home runs and 68 RBIs, and Joey Bart, who has been hot recently, going 13-for-36 with three home runs in his last ten games.

This game marks the fourth time these two teams have met this season. The Dodgers will look to capitalize on their home advantage and the strong form of their starting pitcher Jack Flaherty, who holds a 2.80 ERA and 140 strikeouts. Meanwhile, the Pirates will send Mitch Keller to the mound, who has a solid 3.20 ERA and 118 strikeouts this season. With both teams eager to secure a win, this matchup promises to be an exciting opener to the series.

Odds and Betting Lines

Bet Type	Odds
Over/Under	8 runs
Los Angeles Dodgers Moneyline	-189
Pittsburgh Pirates Moneyline	+158

Pitching Probables

Pitcher	W-L	ERA	Strikeouts
Mitch Keller (PIT)	10-5	3.20	118
Jack Flaherty (LAD)	8-5	2.80	140

Team Previews

Los Angeles Dodgers

The Dodgers' hitting has been a key strength this season. They rank among the top teams in the league, boasting a .252 batting average, which ranks 11th overall. Their ability to hit for power is highlighted by their National League-leading total of 152 home runs. Shohei Ohtani is a standout player, contributing significantly with his impressive statistics, including a .302 batting average and 81 RBIs. The Dodgers’ starting pitching is also among the best in the league, with Jack Flaherty providing a strong presence on the mound, evidenced by his 2.80 ERA. However, the team has faced challenges with injuries to several key players, including Mookie Betts and Max Muncy, who are currently on the IL. Despite these challenges, the Dodgers have shown resilience and are still a competitive force.

Pittsburgh Pirates

The Pirates have had an inconsistent season, currently sitting third in the NL Central. Their hitting statistics reflect their struggles, with a team batting average of .234, ranking 25th in the league. Bryan Reynolds has emerged as a leader, showcasing his talents with 19 home runs and 68 RBIs. The Pirates' pitching has been average, with a team ERA of 3.90, ranking 11th overall. Mitch Keller has been a reliable starter, contributing significantly to the team's pitching staff. However, the Pirates have been plagued by injuries, with several key relievers currently on the IL. This has impacted their ability to close out games and maintain leads. Overall, the Pirates will need to find ways to improve their offensive output to compete effectively against the Dodgers.

Team Injuries

Pittsburgh Pirates

Player Name	Position	Injury	Injury Status
Carmen Mlodzinski	RP	Shoulder	Expected to be out until Aug 14
Colin Holderman	RP	Wrist	Expected to be out until Aug 23

Los Angeles Dodgers

Player Name	Position	Injury	Injury Status
Ryan Brasier	RP	Calf	Out since Aug 9

Betting Trends

The Dodgers are 35-22 at home this season.
Pirates have a 29-27 record on the road.
Los Angeles is 4-6 in their last ten games.
Pittsburgh is also 4-6 in their last ten games.
When scoring five or more runs, the Pirates have a 35-11 record.
The Dodgers lead the NL in home runs with 152.

Recent Games

Los Angeles Dodgers

Opponent	Score	W/L
vs Philadelphia	W 5-3	W
vs Philadelphia	L 6-2	L
vs Philadelphia	L 9-4	L
@ Oakland	W 10-0	W
@ Oakland	W 6-2	W

Pittsburgh Pirates

Opponent	Score	W/L
vs San Diego	L 7-6	L
vs San Diego	L 9-8	L
vs San Diego	L 6-0	L
vs Arizona	W 4-2	W
vs Arizona	L 9-8	L

Team Rankings

Team	Hitting	Starting Pitching	Relief Pitching	Fielding
Los Angeles Dodgers	11th	9th	4th	21st
Pittsburgh Pirates	25th	17th	15th	12th

Significant Betting Stats

The Dodgers have a 66-49 overall record this season.
Pirates are 56-58 overall this season.
Dodgers are 56-59 against the spread.
Pirates are 64-50 against the spread.
The Dodgers are 61-53-1 on totals this season.
The Pirates are 53-57-4 on totals this season.
The Dodgers are 35-22 at home.
The Pirates are 29-27 on the road.
Dodgers' starting pitcher Jack Flaherty has a 2.80 ERA.
Pirates' Mitch Keller has a 3.20 ERA.

Weather

Mostly sunny with a temperature of 78°F.

Prediction

The Los Angeles Dodgers are favored to win this matchup against the Pittsburgh Pirates as they present a stronger lineup and home-field advantage. With Jack Flaherty's exceptional performance on the mound, along with the Dodgers' potent offense led by Shohei Ohtani, they should be able to handle the Pirates. The Pirates, while capable of scoring runs, have struggled recently and will need to find their rhythm against a tough Dodgers pitching staff. Given these factors, my prediction is that the Dodgers will win this game comfortably.

Pick: Los Angeles Dodgers Moneyline