Kansas City Royals vs
Baltimore OriolesPredictions & Preview

Royals Set to Face Orioles in Rematch of 2024 Playoff Game: Wacha vs Kremer on the Mound

In this upcoming matchup between the Kansas City Royals and the Baltimore Orioles, the AL teams are set to face off in a rematch of their 2024 wildcard playoff game. The Royals are coming into this series with a strong record, having won four of their last five games, while the Orioles have stumbled recently, losing three of their last five. The Royals are sending Michael Wacha to the mound, who holds a 1-3 record with a 3.38 ERA, while the Orioles will rely on Dean Kremer, who has a 2-4 record with a 7.04 ERA. The game is scheduled to start at 7:10 PM EST. Baltimore is the betting favorite at -128, with the line remaining steady. Keep reading for more insights on this Royals/Orioles matchup and consider our top picks to increase your chances of winning.

Betting Odds

• Moneyline: Royals +116 | Orioles -128
• Spread: Royals +1.5 (-192) | Orioles -1.5 (+158)
• Total: Over/Under 9.5 (-110)
• Based on the moneyline, the implied probability that Baltimore will win straight-up is 56%.

Kansas City vs Baltimore Stats

Kansas City Royals

The Kansas City Royals are currently on a road trip, heading to face the Orioles after sweeping the Rays in Tampa. The team is now 16-15, with veteran righty Michael Wacha set to start the first game against the Orioles after picking up his second win in his last start. Despite key injuries to players such as C Blake Mitchell and RP Christian Chamberlain, the Royals continue to perform well defensively, allowing an average of 3.60 points per game. Their offense, however, ranks at the bottom of the league, scoring an average of 3.13 points per game.

Baltimore Orioles Analysis

The Baltimore Orioles will look to build on their recent success as they face the Royals at home on Friday night. After taking two of three games against the first-place New York Yankees, the Orioles are now 12-18 for the season. Despite a somewhat shaky performance from pitcher Dean Kremer, who will start the first game against the Royals, the Orioles are optimistic about their chances. Key players like Ryan Mountcastle and Jose Urias have been performing well, and closer Felix Bautista earned his fifth save in the win against the Yankees. The Orioles are looking to improve their offense, currently ranked #19, and tighten up their defense, currently ranked #28. Injuries to several players may impact their lineup, but they are focused on continuing their success against the Royals.

Wacha to Replace Struggling Kremer as Royals Aim to Continue Winning Streak

Kremer has faced challenges in the current season with six starts resulting in 26 runs allowed in only 30.2 innings of work. With 20 strikeouts and 40 hits given up, he has struggled notably in preventing home runs, conceding seven in six starts. In place of Kremer, Wacha will take the mound following an impressive recent performance. The Royals achieved a two out of three games victory against the Orioles earlier in the season and are maintaining momentum with a three-game winning streak. Wacha's success in limiting home runs, having allowed only one so far, will be crucial against the Orioles who have hit 37 home runs this season. It is recommended to consider the Royals with the money line for this matchup.

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