MLB Player Props: Texas Rangers vs St. Louis Cardinals on 7/30

MLB Player Props: Texas Rangers vs St. Louis Cardinals on 7/30

Photo Credit: © Jeff Curry-USA TODAY Sports

Game Summary

The Texas Rangers (52-55) face off against the St. Louis Cardinals (54-52) on July 30, 2024, in what promises to be an exciting matchup at Busch Stadium in St. Louis. This game marks the second meeting of the season between the two teams, with the Rangers taking a 1-0 lead in the three-game series after defeating the Cardinals 6-3 in the series opener. The Rangers are currently third in the AL West, struggling on the road with a 23-32 record, while the Cardinals sit third in the NL Central, boasting a 27-25 record at home. In their recent performances, the Cardinals have struggled, going 4-6 in their last ten games with a .241 batting average and a 4.84 ERA, being outscored by 13 runs. Conversely, the Rangers have found some form, winning six of their last ten games and outscoring opponents by two runs. Key players like Alec Burleson (Cardinals) and Marcus Semien (Rangers) have shown strong performances lately, contributing significantly to their teams' offensive efforts. The matchup features two experienced pitchers: Max Scherzer (Rangers) with a 3.57 ERA and Lance Lynn (Cardinals) at 4.17. The outcome of this game could be crucial in determining the playoff aspirations of both teams as they look to make a late-season push.

Player Prop Odds

• Batter Hits: Over 0.5 (-160)
• Batter RBIs: Over 0.5 (+190)
• Batter Runs Scored: Over 0.5 (+125)
• Batter Singles: Over 0.5 (+110)
• Batter Total Bases: Over 1.5 (+175)

Player Analysis: Paul Goldschmidt

Paul Goldschmidt has been a consistent force for the Cardinals this season. With a batting average of .284, Goldschmidt has showcased his ability to get on base effectively. Over the past ten games, he has gone 10-for-39, including two doubles and three home runs, driving in four RBIs. His performances demonstrate a solid blend of power and contact skills, making him a key offensive weapon for St. Louis. Goldschmidt's ability to produce runs is backed by his overall stats this season, where he has accumulated 54 RBIs and 19 home runs. His patient approach at the plate, combined with his knack for hitting in clutch situations, positions him well to capitalize on opportunities against the Rangers’ pitching staff.

Opposing Analysis

The Texas Rangers will trot out Max Scherzer, who, despite a challenging season with a 2-3 record, has a respectable 3.57 ERA. Scherzer is known for his strikeout ability, having fanned 33 batters in just 35.1 innings pitched. However, he has also allowed 5 home runs, which could be a significant factor for Goldschmidt, who excels in driving in runs when given the opportunity. When facing right-handed pitchers like Scherzer, Goldschmidt has historically performed well, making him a strong candidate for a positive outcome in the player props listed above. With Goldschmidt’s power and Scherzer’s tendency to give up home runs, there’s potential for Goldschmidt to hit safely and drive in runs.

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 a batting average of .245, ranking them 13th in the league. Their offense has been inconsistent, but they have shown the ability to score runs when needed. With a total of 433 runs this season, they rank 24th overall, indicating room for improvement. On the pitching side, their 4.09 ERA ranks 19th, showing they have been somewhat effective but have also had their struggles.

On the flip side, the St. Louis Cardinals are batting .240, ranking 18th, with 452 runs scored. Their offense is heavily reliant on key players like Goldschmidt, who can change the game with one swing of the bat. The pitching staff has a combined ERA of 4.05, which ranks 16th, indicating they are capable but can also be vulnerable, especially against strong offenses.

Team Injuries

Player	Position	Injury Status
Steven Matz	SP	60-Day IL (Back)
Jon Gray	SP	15-Day IL (Groin)
Evan Carter	LF	60-Day IL (Back)

Recent Games

Date	Opponent	Result	W-L
Jul 19	vs Baltimore	L 9-1	46-51
Jul 20	vs Baltimore	L 8-4	46-52
Jul 21	vs Baltimore	W 3-2	47-52
Jul 29	@ St. Louis	W 6-3	52-55

Prediction

Given Paul Goldschmidt's recent form, the favorable matchup against Max Scherzer, and the prop odds, I predict that Goldschmidt will go over 0.5 hits in tonight’s game. The -160 odds suggest a strong possibility of him getting at least one hit, and with his current performance, this bet is a solid choice.

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