Paul Goldschmidt Player Props: Cardinals vs Cubs 8/4
Game Summary
The St. Louis Cardinals (57-54) face off against the Chicago Cubs (54-59) at Wrigley Field on August 4, 2024, at 7:10 PM EDT. This match marks the 13th encounter of the season between these two rivals, with the Cardinals holding a slight edge in the series at 7-5. The Cubs are currently leading the series 2-1, having secured victories in the previous two games, including a close 5-4 win on August 3. The Cardinals have struggled on the road, posting a 28-29 record, while the Cubs have a slightly better home record of 29-26. Notably, the Cubs have excelled when preventing home runs, boasting a 24-15 record in games where they managed to do so. The Cardinals, on the other hand, thrive when scoring five or more runs, with a remarkable 35-10 record under such circumstances. Key players to watch include Cody Bellinger, who leads the Cubs with a .276 batting average and strong offensive contributions, and Nolan Gorman from the Cardinals, who has hit 19 home runs this season. With both teams striving for a playoff position, this game is crucial for momentum heading into the final stretch of the season.
Player Prop Odds
Paul Goldschmidt Player Prop Odds:
- Batter Doubles: Over 0.5 (+400)
- Batter Hits: Over 1.5 (+200)
- Batter Home Runs: Over 0.5 (+320)
- Batter RBIs: Over 0.5 (-190)
- Batter Runs Scored: Over 0.5 (+100)
- Batter Singles: Over 0.5 (-120)
- Batter Total Bases: Over 1.5 (+105)
Player Analysis
Paul Goldschmidt has been a critical component of the Cardinals' offense this season. With a batting average around .270 and 19 home runs, Goldschmidt has demonstrated his ability to drive in runs and create scoring opportunities. His recent form includes a streak of consistent hitting, which makes the over on his total bases and runs scored a viable option for bettors. Over the past few games, Goldschmidt has shown an increase in power, hitting several doubles and home runs. His ability to perform under pressure makes him a key player to watch in this matchup against the Cubs.
Opposing Analysis
The Cubs' pitching staff, led by Justin Steele, has shown signs of vulnerability, particularly against right-handed hitters. Steele, with a 3.38 ERA and 98 strikeouts through 101.1 innings, can be challenged by power hitters like Goldschmidt. Given Goldschmidt's impressive history against left-handed pitchers, there is a strong possibility he could capitalize on Steele's pitches, especially in clutch situations.
Pitching Probables
| Player | W-L | ERA | Strikeouts |
|---|---|---|---|
| Miles Mikolas (STL) | 8-8 | 4.99 | 83 |
| Justin Steele (CHC) | 2-5 | 3.38 | 98 |
Team Previews
St. Louis Cardinals
The Cardinals rank 18th in runs scored this season but have shown resilience in their lineup with players like Goldschmidt and Gorman leading the charge. Their overall team batting average sits at .233, but they have the ability to capitalize on scoring opportunities, particularly when they get runners on base. The Cardinals' pitching staff holds an ERA of 3.78, which has kept them competitive in many games.
Chicago Cubs
The Cubs have a slightly better batting average at .246, ranking 13th in the league. Their offensive production has been led by Cody Bellinger, contributing significantly to the team’s run totals. The Cubs' pitching staff has an ERA of 4.06, which has been effective in limiting opponents but can be exploited by high-caliber hitters like Goldschmidt. Their recent struggles against power hitters could be a key factor in this matchup.
Team Injuries
| Player | Position | Injury Status |
|---|---|---|
| Mike Siani | CF | Probable (Oblique) |
| Adbert Alzolay | RP | Out for the season (Forearm) |
Recent Games
| Team | Opponent | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Cardinals | Cubs | W 5-4 |
| Cubs | Cardinals | L 5-4 |
| Cardinals | Rangers | W 10-1 |
| Cubs | Reds | W 13-4 |
| Cardinals | Rangers | L 6-3 |
