Atlanta Braves vs
Philadelphia PhilliesPredictions & Preview

Strategies for Betting on MLB Games: Chris Sale Returns to the Mound Against Phillies' Powerhouse Offense

strategies for betting on MLB games.

Betting Odds

• Moneyline: Braves +130 | Phillies -147
• Spread: Braves +1.5 (-175) | Phillies -1.5 (+153)
• Total: Over/Under 7.5 (-110)
• Based on the moneyline, the implied probability that Philadelphia will win straight-up is 60%.

Atlanta Braves

The Atlanta Braves are currently working to salvage a challenging season and reclaim third place in their division, but a significant 19-4 loss on Thursday has hindered their efforts. They are currently two games behind the Marlins for third in the NL East, and are not in a favorable position to make a push for playoff contention. In the recent game, first baseman Matt Olson hit a solo home run, but it was not enough to offset the sizable deficit. Olson, who leads the team with 21 home runs, 75 RBIs, and a .266 batting average, represented the team in this season's Home Run Derby and has been a key power hitter batting second in the lineup. Ronald Acuna Jr., batting third, has also been a valuable player despite his time off recovering from a torn ACL, with 15 home runs, 38 RBIs, and a .291 batting average. Chris Sale, a seasoned 36-year-old left-hander, is set to make his 16th start of the season after returning from a rib injury that sidelined him for 60 days. Despite his impressive 2.52 ERA, Sale has not pitched since June 18th.

Philadelphia Phillies

The Philadelphia Phillies had a challenging start to the week with three consecutive losses to the Mets, but bounced back strongly with a 19-0 win against the Braves. Kyle Schwarber had an impressive performance on Thursday, hitting four home runs with nine RBIs. Schwarber now has 49 home runs and 119 RBIs on the season, making him a key power hitter for the team. Trae Turner also had a solid game with two hits and an RBI, bringing his season total to 14 home runs and 62 RBIs. Bryce Harper contributed with a 2-3 performance and an RBI. Christopher Sanchez will be making his 27th start of the season, leading the team in innings pitched with an 11-5 record and a 2.66 ERA. Despite a recent loss to the Mets, the team has been performing well with a 3-2 record in Sanchez's last five starts.

Chris Sale Returns to the Mound Against Phillies' Powerhouse Offense

The Atlanta Braves will be starting veteran pitcher Chris Sale, who has not started a game for over two months due to a rib injury. Sale may show signs of rust against the formidable Philadelphia Phillies team. The Phillies are coming off a dominant offensive performance, scoring 19 runs in their last game with Kyle Schwarber hitting four home runs and recording nine RBIs. With key players like Harper, Bohm, and Turner in their lineup, the Phillies are at full strength for this matchup. Considering Sale's extended absence and the Phillies' recent success, it may be wise to choose Philadelphia as the favored team to win this game.

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