Paul Goldschmidt Player Props: Rays vs Cardinals 8/7

Mr Wager
Aug 7, 2024, 12:10:50 PM

Photo Credit: © Jeff Curry-USA TODAY Sports

Game Summary

The St. Louis Cardinals (58-56) take on the Tampa Bay Rays (57-55) in the second game of their series at Busch Stadium in St. Louis this Wednesday, August 7, 2024. The game is set to start at 7:45 PM EDT. The Cardinals lead the series 1-0 after their recent 4-3 win against the Rays, thanks to a solid performance from their pitching staff and timely hitting. Historically, these teams have had competitive matchups, but the Cardinals have had the upper hand in recent encounters.

In their last ten games, the Cardinals have a .242 batting average and a 4.03 ERA, managing to outscore their opponents by just two runs. In contrast, the Rays have shown a much stronger performance with a .245 batting average and a remarkable 1.82 ERA, outscoring their opponents by 23 runs over the same stretch. The Cardinals have excelled when scoring five or more runs, boasting a 35-10 record in those games, while the Rays have a similar record of 34-6 under the same circumstances. This sets the stage for an exciting matchup between two teams fighting for playoff positions.

Player Prop Odds

Paul Goldschmidt - Home Runs: Over 0.5 (+420)

Player Analysis

Paul Goldschmidt, the Cardinals' first baseman, has established himself as a cornerstone of the team's offense. Currently, he has hit 18 home runs this season and boasts a .275 batting average. Over the past few games, Goldschmidt has displayed consistent power, making him a key player to watch. With his ability to drive the ball, particularly against right-handed pitching, there's a strong chance he can hit at least one home run in this matchup.

Opposing Analysis

The Tampa Bay Rays will send Taj Bradley to the mound, who has a solid 2.71 ERA and 103 strikeouts in 86.1 innings pitched. Bradley has been effective at limiting hard contact and managing opposing hitters, but he has allowed 12 home runs this season. Given Goldschmidt's power and the potential volatility in Bradley's ability to keep the ball in the park, this creates an enticing opportunity for Goldschmidt to hit a home run.

Pitching Probables

Pitcher	W-L	ERA	Strikeouts
Taj Bradley (TB)	6-5	2.71	103
Erick Fedde (STL)	7-5	3.34	112

Team Previews

Tampa Bay Rays: The Rays have struggled to score runs consistently, ranking 21st in MLB with 472 runs this season. Their .245 team batting average ranks 13th, and they have seen a mixture of pitching success with a team ERA of 4.09. However, their bullpen has been outstanding, leading the league with 39 saves. Key players like Brandon Lowe and Yandy Diaz have been instrumental in their offensive efforts.

St. Louis Cardinals: The Cardinals have also had their challenges, ranking 28th in runs scored with just 444. Their team batting average of .234 places them 24th in MLB. However, they have some standout performers in Nolan Gorman, who leads the team with 19 home runs, and Goldschmidt, who continues to be a reliable source of power and production.

Team Injuries

Player	Position	Injury Status
Mike Siani	OF	10-Day IL (oblique)
Lance Lynn	SP	15-Day IL (knee)
Steven Matz	SP	60-Day IL (back)
Keynan Middleton	RP	60-Day IL (forearm)
Drew Rasmussen	SP	60-Day IL (elbow)