The Philadelphia Phillies are slowly returning to the form that lit up the City of Brotherly Love just a few short weeks ago. They’ve won the opening three games of the series against the Cincinnati Reds so far and will be looking to complete the sweep this evening. Here’s everything you need to know ahead of game 4.
As far as a matchup goes, this has a sweep written all over it. The Reds have been blistered by the Phillies this season, having lost all but one game in the six matchups contested so far. They’ve also 4-6 in their last 10 and at this point are challenging the Pirates for the title of ‘worst team in the NL Central’.
As for the Phillies, they’ve been red hot outside of a series of gut punches sustained against the Mets. They may have lost some considerable ground to the Atlanta Braves, but all eyes are now on a final wildcard spot. They have a one-game lead over the Padres, who occupy the final wildcard spot, so would love nothing more than to eek out a second with a win tonight.
Unfortunately, there will still be no Bryce Harper, but the team’s MVP darling is nearing a return and is currently demolishing every pitcher that stands in his way down at Lehigh Valley. However, there is still plenty of batting power to be found and that could lead to very profitable prop bet.
The Best Catcher in Baseball
J.T Realmuto has been on a tear since the All-Star Break. He’s had at least one hit in each of his last six games, averaging 2 per contest and went 3-5 last night. With the ‘Best catcher in Baseball’ living up to his old reputation, J.T could be poised to pick apart Justin Dunn, who has allowed 6 runs per contest on average. He gave up 5 runs to the Mets and 7 to the Chicago Cubs. The Phils’ high-powered offense should have no dramas going against Dunn in what could rapidly become a bullpen game here, and I’d be more than happy betting on Realmuto to register a hit at odds of -240.
Phillies vs Reds Betting preview
RHP Justin Dunn (1-1, 6.08 ERA) vs. RHP Aaron Nola (8-10, 3.25 ERA)
Nola day is always a good day to bet the Phillies, and when he’s going against a pitcher who has struggled in each of his last few appearances at the mound, as well as a lackluster offense, it should be pretty easy pickings for Nola.
Betting the Phillies would be the safe play tonight, even if the odds are a little short. Perhaps a parlay with the J.T prop would be a way to gain some leverage, but either way, you won’t go far wrong betting the Phillies.
AP Photo/Jeff Dean
