Taylor Ward Player Props: Angels vs Nationals 8/9

- A Plus Picks
- Aug 9, 2024, 9:31:54 AM
Taylor Ward Player Props: Angels vs Nationals 8/9
Photo Credit: © Jonathan Hui-USA TODAY Sports
Game Summary
The Los Angeles Angels (51-64) are set to face off against the Washington Nationals (52-64) in the first game of a three-game series at Nationals Park on August 9, 2024. This game will start at 6:45 PM EDT. Both teams are currently sitting in fourth place in their respective divisions, with the Angels in the AL West and the Nationals in the NL East. The Nationals have struggled recently, holding a record of 26-31 at home. They come into this matchup with a 3-7 record over their last ten games, where they have a batting average of .275 and a collective ERA of 6.44, being outscored by 25 runs. In contrast, the Angels have performed slightly better, going 6-4 in their last ten, boasting a .269 batting average and a 3.60 ERA, while outscoring their opponents by nine runs.
Historically, this is the first meeting between these teams this season, but both teams have had their fair share of ups and downs. The Angels have had some standout players, including Nolan Schanuel, who has 12 home runs and 41 RBIs, and Zachary Neto, who has been hot, going 12-for-31 with three home runs in his last ten games. The Nationals, on the other hand, have Luis Garcia leading with a .290 batting average and 14 home runs.
Player Prop Odds
- Taylor Ward Total Bases: Over 1.5 (+100)
- Taylor Ward Hits: Over 1.5 (+230)
- Taylor Ward RBIs: Over 0.5 (+135)
- Taylor Ward Home Runs: Over 0.5 (+400)
- Taylor Ward Runs Scored: Over 0.5 (-130)
- Taylor Ward Singles: Over 0.5 (-105)
- Taylor Ward Doubles: Over 0.5 (+280)
Player Analysis
Taylor Ward has been a consistent player for the Angels this season. Currently, he holds a batting average of .253, showing flashes of power with 12 home runs and 41 RBIs. Ward's ability to get on base and drive runs in makes him a key asset for the Angels, especially with Mike Trout sidelined. In the past week, he has been hitting well and is likely to continue that trend against the Nationals' pitching.
Ward has a knack for hitting in clutch situations, which reflects in his RBIs and total bases statistics. He has a solid approach at the plate, often making good contact and finding gaps in the defense, making him a prime candidate for player prop bets.
Opposing Analysis
On the mound for the Nationals will be Mitchell Parker, who has a 4.06 ERA and 87 strikeouts this season. While Parker has shown flashes of brilliance, he has also been prone to giving up hits and runs, making the Angels' hitters viable options for player props. The Nationals' bullpen has struggled, which could lead to opportunities for Ward to capitalize late in the game, especially if the Angels can get runners on base ahead of him.
Pitching Probables
| Pitcher | W-L | ERA | Strikeouts |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jose Soriano (LAA) | 6-7 | 3.47 | 85 |
| Mitchell Parker (WAS) | 6-6 | 4.06 | 87 |
Team Previews
Los Angeles Angels: The Angels have struggled overall this season, but their recent form shows they can be competitive. They have a team batting average of .243 and an ERA of 4.40, which ranks them in the middle of the league. Their hitting has been highlighted by players like Ward, Schanuel, and Neto, who have been productive in recent games.
Washington Nationals: The Nationals have a .237 batting average and a 4.52 ERA. Their hitting has not been consistent, and they have relied heavily on players like Luis Garcia and CJ Abrams to carry the offense. With several key injuries, including Trevor Williams on the IL, their depth has been tested.
Team Injuries
| Player | Position | Injury Status |
|---|---|---|
| Jordan Weems | RP | 15-Day IL (shin) |
| Josiah Gray | SP | 60-Day IL (elbow) |
| Joey Gallo | OF | 10-Day IL (hamstring) |
| Trevor Williams | SP | 15-Day IL (shoulder) |
| Cade Cavalli | SP | 60-Day IL (elbow) |
| Mason Thompson | RP | 60-Day IL (elbow) |
| Luis Rengifo | 2B | 10-Day IL (wrist) |
| Mike Trout | OF | 10-Day IL (meniscus) |
Recent Games
| Date | Opponent | Score | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aug 1 | vs Colorado | L5-4 | Loss |
| Aug 2 | vs New York | L5-1 | Loss |
| Aug 3 | vs New York | W5-4 | Win |
| Aug 4 | vs New York | W3-2 | Win |
| Aug 7 | @ New York | W8-2 | Win |
| Date | Opponent | Score | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aug 1 | vs San Francisco | L9-5 | Loss |
| Aug 2 | vs San Francisco | L4-1 | Loss |
| Aug 3 | vs San Francisco | W11-5 | Win |
| Aug 4 | vs San Francisco | L7-4 | Loss |
| Aug 5 | vs San Francisco | L9-5 F/10 | Loss |
Prediction
Given Taylor Ward's recent performance and the Nationals' struggles on the mound, I predict that Taylor Ward will surpass 1.5 total bases in this matchup. The odds are favorable at +100, and with the potential for multiple hits against Parker, this bet holds substantial value. Pick: Over 1.5 Total Bases


