MLB Player Props Game Picks: Texas Rangers vs St. Louis Cardinals (7/30)
- Big Ben Profits
- Jul 30, 2024, 4:07:48 AM
MLB Player Props Game Picks: Texas Rangers vs St. Louis Cardinals (7/30)
Photo Credit: © Jeff Curry-USA TODAY Sports
Game Summary
The Texas Rangers (52-55) will face off against the St. Louis Cardinals (54-52) at Busch Stadium on Tuesday, July 30, 2024, at 7:45 PM EDT. This matchup marks the second meeting of the season between these two teams, with the Rangers leading the series 1-0 after their recent victory. The Cardinals come into the game with a 27-25 home record, while the Rangers have struggled on the road with a 23-32 record. Recently, St. Louis has displayed a solid offensive performance, achieving a record of 38-21 when recording eight or more hits in a game.
In terms of recent form, the Cardinals have gone 4-6 in their last ten games, with a batting average of .241 and an ERA of 4.84, indicating struggles both offensively and on the mound. The Rangers, however, have fared slightly better with a 6-4 record in their last ten games, boasting a .255 batting average and a 4.18 ERA. Key players to watch include Alec Burleson for the Cardinals, who has been productive with 14 doubles and 18 home runs. For the Rangers, Josh Smith has also been a standout with 20 doubles and 11 home runs this season.
With both teams looking to gain traction in their respective divisions, this matchup is critical for playoff aspirations. The Rangers have struggled in games where they allow home runs, holding a record of 25-48 in such instances, while the Cardinals aim to leverage their home field advantage to even the series.
Player Prop Odds
For Leody Taveras, the player prop odds are as follows:
- Batter Hits: Over 0.5 (-180)
- Batter Doubles: Over 0.5 (+380)
- Batter RBIs: Over 0.5 (+220)
- Batter Runs Scored: Over 0.5 (+120)
- Batter Singles: Over 0.5 (-105)
- Batter Stolen Bases: Over 0.5 (+430)
- Batter Total Bases: Over 1.5 (+160)
Player Analysis
Leody Taveras has been a critical component of the Rangers' offense this season. His ability to get on base and generate runs make him a valuable asset in the lineup. Taveras has shown significant improvement in his hitting, particularly against right-handed pitchers, which bodes well for his performance against Lance Lynn on Tuesday. He has been hitting at a consistent rate, and with the odds leaning towards him getting at least one hit in this matchup, it seems favorable for bettors.
Opposing Analysis
On the opposing side, Lance Lynn has had a mixed season, holding a 4.17 ERA and giving up 14 home runs. The Rangers lineup can capitalize on his tendency to allow hits, which can elevate Taveras's chances of getting on base. The Cardinals have been decent defensively, but their pitching staff has struggled to contain aggressive hitters, particularly speedsters like Taveras.
Pitching Probables
| Player | W-L | ERA | Strikeouts |
|---|---|---|---|
| Max Scherzer (TEX) | 2-3 | 3.57 | 33 |
| Lance Lynn (STL) | 5-4 | 4.17 | 94 |
Team Previews
The Texas Rangers have had a challenging season, sitting third in the AL West. Their offensive stats show a team batting average of .245, with a total of 874 hits this year. Defensively, the Rangers have struggled with a 4.09 ERA, ranking them 19th in the league.
The St. Louis Cardinals, on the other hand, are in a similar position in the NL Central. They have a slightly better batting average of .240, with a total of 854 hits. Their pitching has also been a concern, as indicated by their 4.05 ERA, ranking them 16th in the league.
Team Injuries
| Player | Position | Injury Status |
|---|---|---|
| Steven Matz | SP | 60-Day IL (Back) |
| Keynan Middleton | RP | 60-Day IL (Forearm) |
| Tyler Mahle | SP | 60-Day IL (Elbow) |
| Jon Gray | SP | 15-Day IL (Groin) |
| Evan Carter | LF | 60-Day IL (Back) |
Recent Games
| Opponent | Score | W/L |
|---|---|---|
| vs Baltimore | L 9-1 | L |
| vs Baltimore | L 8-4 | L |
| vs Baltimore | W 3-2 | W |
| @ St. Louis | W 6-3 | W |
| @ Toronto | L 7-3 | L |
Prediction
With Leody Taveras's impressive form and favorable odds, the best bet for tonight's game is to take the Over on his hits (0.5) at -180. The matchup against Lance Lynn, who has shown inconsistency this season, sets the stage for Taveras to exploit any mistakes. Additionally, the Over on total bases (1.5) at +160 is another attractive option. Expect Taveras to be a key player for the Rangers as they push for another series win against the Cardinals.
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