Cardinals vs Angels starting pitchers

In the upcoming St. Louis Cardinals vs. Los Angeles Angels game, we'll see Matthew Liberatore take the mound for the Cardinals, while Jose Soriano will pitch for the Angels. Liberatore comes into the game with a promising ERA of 3.54 and a WHIP of 1.18 over 20 and 1/3 innings, showcasing a solid level of control and efficiency. On the other hand, Soriano, with a higher ERA of 4.32 and a WHIP of 1.35 in 33 and 1/3 innings, indicates he’s been more susceptible to allowing hitters to reach base. While Soriano has doubled Liberatore’s strikeouts this season, his higher walk and home run counts suggest potential vulnerability. This pitching matchup presents an intriguing aspect of strategy and could significantly influence the game's outcome, depending on how each handles the opposing lineup's pressure.

Cardinals vs Angels game preview

The St. Louis Cardinals are entering the upcoming matchup against the Los Angeles Angels with a need to boost their offensive production, given their struggles at the plate thus far in the season. Currently ranked near the bottom of the league in runs scored, hits, and batting average, the Cardinals have posted a mere .220 team batting average, positioning them 28th overall. Their power-hitting capabilities have also been underwhelming, indicated by their ranking of tied-29th in home runs. The team is feeling the absence of Willson Contreras who, despite being one of the team's leading hitters with a .280 average and six home runs, is sidelined due to forearm surgery. With Matthew Liberatore announced as the probable starting pitcher, the Cardinals will rely heavily on their mid-ranking strikeout rate and their above-average ability to leave runners stranded to combat the Angels’ lineup.

On the other side, the Los Angeles Angels present a more balanced team with slight advantages, particularly in their speed and ability to make contact, as evident from their ranking 7th in stolen bases and 10th in hits. The team's batting performance has been notably stronger than that of the Cardinals, marked by a .240 batting average. Despite facing challenges in drawing walks, where they rank 26th, power hitters like Mike Trout, who leads the team with ten home runs despite a stint on the 10-Day-IL for knee surgery, give the Angels a significant edge. Jose Soriano stepping up as the probable starting pitcher adds an interesting dynamic to their gameplay against the Cardinals. The Angels will look to leverage their higher run-scoring capability and slightly superior pitch facing tally to dominate the game early and maintain pressure throughout.

Los Angeles Angels injuries

• Evan White (1B): Day-To-Day
• Miguel Sano (3B): 10-Day-IL
• Jose Cisnero (RP): 15-Day-IL
• Ryan Costeiu (SP): Day-To-Day
• Luis Rengifo (2B): 10-Day-IL

St. Louis Cardinals injuries

• Packy Naughton (RP): Day-To-Day
• Keynan Middleton (RP): 15-Day-IL
• Giovanny Gallegos (RP): 15-Day-IL
• Steven Matz (SP): 15-Day-IL
• Riley O'Brien (RP): 60-Day-IL

Cardinals vs Angels predictions

Here we go, folks! The St. Louis Cardinals are rolling into Anaheim to take on the Los Angeles Angels, and I'm jacked to break down this matchup. For the Redbirds, I'm expecting a big game from Nolan Arenado, who's been quietly raking all season. I think he goes yard tonight, maybe even twice, and drives in at least three runs. Meanwhile, I think Brendan Donovan continues his strong rookie campaign with a multi-hit game, including a double and a run scored. And don't sleep on Lars Nootbaar, who's shown flashes of brilliance in the outfield - I think he makes a highlight-reel play to help his team.

Now, switching sides, the Angels have some studs of their own. Mike Trout is, well, Mike Trout, and I think he gets a hit and scores a run, but I'm not convinced he goes deep (although, let's be real, he could do anything). Taylor Ward has been a pleasant surprise for the Halos, and I think he keeps it going with a 2-for-4 night, including a double and a ribbie. And don't count out Jo Adell, who's shown flashes of brilliance in the outfield - I think he comes through with a clutch hit late in the game.

So, who takes it? I think the Cardinals' pitching, led by Matthew Liberatore, keeps the Angels' bats in check, and the Redbirds' offense does just enough to sneak out a tight win. I'm talking 5-4 St. Louis, with Arenado's big game being the difference-maker. The Angels will threaten late, but ultimately come up just short. It's gonna be a fun one, folks - grab some peanuts and cracker jacks and let's get ready for a battle!