Angels vs Pirates starting pitchers
In the upcoming matchup between the Los Angeles Angels and Pittsburgh Pirates, the spotlight will shine on starting pitchers Jose Soriano and Martin Perez. Representing the Angels, Soriano enters the game with a respectable 3.77 ERA and a WHIP of 1.29, having amassed 26 strikeouts over 28 full innings and 2 partial innings, despite battling through some control issues evident from his 15 walks. On the other side, the Pirates will rely on the slightly more seasoned Martin Perez, who boasts an ERA of 3.15 and a WHIP of 1.38, with a higher tally of 31 strikeouts across 40 innings pitched this season. Although both pitchers are tasked with keeping their teams competitive in this game, Perez's experience and lower ERA might give the Pirates a slight edge in the pitching department.
Angels vs Pirates game preview
As the Los Angeles Angels prepare to face off against the Pittsburgh Pirates, the team's performance at bat will be crucial. The Angels are tied for 12th in the number of hits, demonstrating a decent hitting capability with 297 hits this season. However, their production in terms of runs scores is modest, ranked 19th with 149 runs. With the presence of power hitters like Mike Trout, albeit currently on the 10-Day-IL due to knee surgery, and the consistent performance from Logan O'Hoppe leading the team with a .279 batting average, the Angels will need to capitalize on scoring opportunities, especially given their 26th rank in walks drawn which limits their on-base potential. The team also shows a strong dynamic skillset with their ranking of 8th in stolen bases, indicating they could play aggressively on the base paths.
On the other side, the Pittsburgh Pirates are currently struggling with their offensive lineup, although they have excelled in drawing walks, ranked 3rd with 141 walks, reflecting patience at the plate. However, their overall run production severely contrasts this, ranking a lowly 26th in both runs scored and batting average, at .221. This indicates a significant challenge in capitalizing on the opportunities that walks might provide. Key players like Bryan Reynolds, who leads the team with 17 RBIs, and Connor Joe, boasting the team's highest batting average of .280, will be pivotal in igniting the Pirates' lineup. The Pirates' high strikeout rate, ranking 6th with 339 strikeouts, could also be a major stumbling block, potentially stifling rallies before they gain momentum. Pitching will hence play a critical role, with Martin Perez expected to start, and the team's capability to limit opposition scoring being more crucial than ever.
Pittsburgh Pirates injuries
- Thomas Harrington (SP): Day-To-Day
- Cristofer Melendez (SP): Out
- Enmanuel Terrero (OF): Day-To-Day
- Ryan Borucki (RP): 15-Day-IL
- Marco Gonzales (SP): 15-Day-IL
Los Angeles Angels injuries
- Luis Rengifo (2B): Day-To-Day
- Guillermo Zuniga (RP): 15-Day-IL
- Miguel Sano (3B): 10-Day-IL
- Evan White (1B): Day-To-Day
- Jose Cisnero (RP): 15-Day-IL
Angels vs Pirates predictions
You know, I was looking at the betting odds for this Angels-Pirates game, and I gotta say, it's kinda weird. The Pirates are favored at -135, which, I mean, I get it, they're at home, but still, it seems like the books are sleeping on the Angels here. I think it's because people are still hung up on the Halos' slow start, but they've been playing better ball lately. Don't get me wrong, the Buccos are no slouches, but I think the value's on the Angels here. If you're feeling brave, take the underdog and grab the Angels at +115.
Okay, so let's get to the good stuff. I think Jo Adell's gonna have a big game for the Angels - I'm projecting him for at least two hits and an RBI. On the other side, I think Oneil Cruz is gonna be a problem for the Pirates, I've got him down for a homer and three RBIs. And let's not forget about the pitching - Jose Soriano's been solid for the Angels, I think he'll go at least six strong innings and give up two earned. Meanwhile, Martin Perez is gonna have to be on his A-game to contain the Angels' bats. In the end, I think the Angels' offense is gonna be too much for the Pirates, and they'll take this one 6-4. Go ahead, take the Angels and the over, and enjoy the fireworks.
