MLB Picks Today: Astros vs. Cardinals Game Prediction 3/16

Get ready for a thrilling matchup as the Houston Astros take on the St. Louis Cardinals on March 16th at 1:05 PM at the Roger Dean Chevrolet Stadium. As your trusted source for MLB picks for today, we at KingPin.pro have got you covered with in-depth team analysis, injury reports, and our expert pick, along with valuable insights on key players. Don't forget to download the Kingpin.pro iOS and Android app for all the latest MLB picks and parlays, available at your fingertips!

Houston Astros

Hitting The Astros have been solid at the plate this season, boasting a team average of .246 with 17 home runs and 73 runs scored. Grae Kessinger has been a standout player, hitting 2 HR with a .250 AVG and 3 RBI. J.J. Matijevic has also impressed, contributing 7 RBI, 1 HR, and a .316 AVG. Collin Price, with a 1.000 AVG, 1.000 OBP, and 1.000 SLG, has shown great potential and could play a significant role in the upcoming game.

Other key hitters in the lineup, such as Alex Bregman and Jose Altuve, have the ability to change the game's outcome with their powerful and consistent hitting. It's crucial for the Astros to maintain their offensive momentum to secure a victory.

Pitching Houston's pitching staff has been performing well, posting a 3.47 ERA and 1.24 WHIP. Their pitchers have amassed 145 strikeouts while issuing 63 walks. The Astros have been particularly effective in limiting opponents to a .221 OBA.

The team's starting rotation, led by Zack Greinke and Framber Valdez, has been a driving force behind their success. The bullpen, featuring Ryan Pressly and Cristian Javier, has also been reliable, offering the Astros a solid foundation for closing out games.

St. Louis Cardinals

Hitting The Cardinals have shown some power at the plate this season, with a team average of .256, 23 home runs, and 76 runs scored. Brendan Donovan has been a key player, hitting 4 HR with a .290 AVG and 10 RBI. Matthew Koperniak has also been outstanding, hitting 1.000 AVG, 1.000 OBP, and 4.000 SLG.

Nolan Arenado and Paul Goldschmidt provide a strong backbone to the Cardinals' offense, and their experience could prove to be vital in this game. St. Louis will need to capitalize on every opportunity to score runs against the Astros' formidable pitching staff.

Pitching St. Louis' pitching staff has struggled a bit more, with a 4.27 ERA and 1.34 WHIP. Their pitchers have struck out 122 batters and allowed 49 walks. Opposing teams have been able to hit .254 against the Cardinals' pitching staff.

The Cardinals' starting rotation, featuring Jack Flaherty and Adam Wainwright, will need to step up their game to counter the Astros' offense. Relief pitchers such as Giovanny Gallegos and Alex Reyes will be crucial in maintaining the lead or keeping the game close in later innings.

The Cardinals' pitching staff must focus on limiting walks and keeping the ball in the park to give their offense a chance to win the game.

Injuries

Houston Astros Yordan Alvarez (DH) - Day-To-Day (Mar 12) Michael Brantley (DH) - Out (Mar 13) Lance McCullers Jr. (SP) - Out (Mar 14) Parker Mushinski (RP) - Out (Mar 15) Blake Taylor (RP) - Out (Mar 15)

St. Louis Cardinals Jose Fermin (SS) - Out (Mar 11) Paul DeJong (SS) - Day-To-Day (Mar 15)

Prediction

While both teams have shown offensive prowess, the Astros' superior pitching performance gives them the edge in this matchup. With key injuries on both sides, it's going to be a close game, but we believe the Astros will come out on top.

However, the Cardinals have the offensive firepower to match the Astros and could pull off an upset if their pitching staff steps up and contains the Astros' hitters.

Pick: Houston Astros

In conclusion, our MLB expert picks and in-depth analysis indicate that the Houston Astros have the advantage in this matchup. Nevertheless, the St. Louis Cardinals have the potential to make it a close game, and anything can happen in baseball. Be sure to follow KingPin.pro for all your MLB picks free, including MLB picks parlays, MLB predictions 2023, and daily game insights.

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