The Philadelphia Phillies were able to win two of their three games against Baltimore this week which now sees them move up to second place in the NL East, although still a whopping 10 games back from the Braves. Can the Phils keep the momentum rolling against the Pirates?
Phillies vs Pirates info
Date: Friday, July 28th
Time: 8:05PM ET
Location: PNC Park, Pittsburgh
TV channel: MLB TV
Phillies vs Orioles Betting odds
Money line: Philadelphia Phillies (-155) | Pittsburgh Pirates (+135)
Run Line: Philadelphia Phillies -1.5 (-110) | Pittsburgh Pirates +1.5 (-130)
Run total: Over/Under 8.5 (-110)
Pitching matchup
Zack Wheeler (7-5, 3.80 ERA) vs Mitch Keller (9-6, 4.01 ERA)
Happy Wheelsday! Through the month of July, Wheeler has sported a 3.96 ERA and hasn’t allowed more than 3 runs in any of his last 4 starts. However, he has allowed 5+ hits in each, which may give you an edge if you’re looking to play the pitching markets. Pittsburgh does rank 23rd in batting average this season, and 24th over their last 3 games, so there’s a real chance that Wheeler can put in an elite performance.
As for Mitch Keller, he’s wobbled as of late. The Pirate has given up 8+ hits in 3 of his last 4 games along with 19 runs. Had it not been for a huge game against Arizona where he gave up just 1 hit in 7 innings, his ERA in this span (7.04) would be way worse. There is definitely a cause for concern here, and a reason for the Phillies to be licking their lips.
Phillies vs Pirates Betting preview
For me, betting the Phillies outright is the play here. Keller appears to have hit a wall in recent weeks and so long as Zack Wheeler can take care of a middling offense, this should be a very winnable game. The Pirates’ bullpen is giving up 4.24 runs per game, 9th worst in the league. This should comfortably become a Phillies win.
If you want a prop bet, look no further than J.T Realmuto, who in 8 at-bats against Keller has 3 RBI’s and a home run. Given that Keller is sliding, I will happily back Realmuto to continue to haunt the pitcher. Realmuto over 1.5 hits is +195, or a home run is +475. Both could be profitable picks.
Nick Castellanos also has 5 RBI against Keller, batting .292 in 24 appearances. Nick Castellanos to record 1.5+ hits is +180
Best Phillies vs Pirates betting promos
DraftKings has an exciting promo to keep football fans excited. If you place a $5 bet on any MLB Market, you’ll get $200 in free bets if your team wins!
AP Photo/Matt Rourke
