Pittsburgh Pirates at St. Louis Cardinals odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Thursday’s Pittsburgh Pirates at St. Louis Cardinals odds and lines, with MLB expert picks and predictions.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3011″ ]

The Pittsburgh Pirates (71-81) take on the St. Louis Cardinals (77-75) Thursday in the finale of a 4-game set at Busch Stadium at 7:15 p.m. ET. Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s MLB odds around the Pirates vs. Cardinals odds and make our expert MLB picks and predictions for the best bets.

Season series: Cardinals lead 8-4

The Pirates dropped a wild one Wednesday 10-5 as +183 underdogs. They fell behind 4-0 after 3 innings and battled back to grab a 5-4 lead in the top of the 6th before folding in the 7th when the Cardinals scored 6 times. Six Pirates had 2 hits apiece, and rookie CF Billy Cook hit his 1st major league homer.

SS Masyn Winn’s game-tying homer to lead off the bottom of the 7th started the Cardinals’ big inning, while RF Jordan Walker capped the scoring with a bases-clearing 3-run double 7 batters later. Winn, who has 14 homers, quietly is having one of the best seasons as a Cardinals shortstop over the last 20 years. Even though the Cards — who cashed as -201 favorites Wednesday — have won 3 in a row, they’re still 7 games out of a Wild Card spot and running out of runway with 10 games to go.

Pirates at Cardinals projected starters

RHP Luis Ortiz vs. RHP Erick Fedde

Ortiz (6-6, 3.45 ERA) makes his 14th start and 36th appearance. He has a 1.13 WHIP, 2.9 BB/9 and 7.0 K/9 through 122 2/3 innings.

  • Last start: Loss, 4 IP, 4 ER (7 R), 5 H, 2 BB, 5 K in 8-3 home setback vs. Kansas City Royals Friday
  • Career vs. Cardinals: 0-2, 14.63 ERA (8 IP, 13 ER), 14 H, 2 HR, 10 BB, 10 K in 4 games (3 starts)
  • 2024 vs. Cardinals: 1 relief appearance, 2 IP, 1 ER, 3 H, 0 BB, 4 K in 7-4 home loss July 2
  • 3 career starts vs. Cardinals: 0-2, 18.00 ERA (6 IP, 12 ER) 11 H, 2 HR, 10 BB, 6 K

Fedde (8-9, 3.45 ERA) makes his 30th start this season combined between the Cardinals and Chicago White Sox. He has a 1.18 WHIP, 2.7 BB/9 and 7.7 K/9 through 164 1/3 innings between the 2 clubs

  • Last start: No-decision, 5 IP, 3 ER, 6 H, 1 BB, 3 K in 4-3 loss in 11 innings at Toronto Blue Jays Friday
  • Career vs. Pirates: 1-0, 3.60 ERA (10 IP, 4 ER), 7 H, 4 BB, 10 K in 2 starts — both in 2022 for Washington Nationals

Who’s going yard? Here’s a breakdown of today’s best home run props with our top picks. Include the BetMGM bonus code SBWIRE to score a $1,500 first-bet offer.

Pirates at Cardinals odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list of MLB odds. Lines last updated at 3:01 p.m. ET.

  • Moneyline (ML): Pirates +120 (bet $100 to win $115) | Cardinals -145 (bet $145 to win $100)
  • Run line (RL)/Against the spread (ATS): Pirates +1.5 (-175) | Cardinals -1.5 (+145)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 8.5 (O: +100 | U: -120)

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3012″ ]

Pirates at Cardinals picks and predictions

Prediction

Pirates 5, Cardinals 4

Moneyline

The Cards have dominated this series. However, Fedde is 1-5 with a 4.43 ERA (42 2/3 IP, 21 ER) since being acquired by the Cardinals. Expect the PIRATES (+120) to bounce back.

Run line/Against the spread

Since Fedde has not settled in with his new team, I’m taking ERICK FEDDE UNDER 17.5 OUTS (-110). He has made it through 6 innings only twice in 8 of his starts with the Cardinals.

Over/Under

It’s a warm 88 degrees with a 6-mph wind blowing out to left-center in St. Louis. The bats really came out Wednesday, and I look for Busch to play similarly Thursday on a hot evening.

TAKE OVER 8.5 (-100).

Play our free daily Pick’em Challenge and win! Play now!

[gambcom-standard rankid=”5″ ]

For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.

Follow Ryan Dodson on Twitter/X. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter/X and like us on Facebook.

Fantasy baseball help from BaseballHQ.com:
Subscribe now to dominate the competition.

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1372]

Pittsburgh Pirates at St. Louis Cardinals odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Wednesday’s Pittsburgh Pirates at St. Louis Cardinals odds and lines, with MLB expert picks and predictions.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3011″ ]

The Pittsburgh Pirates (71-80) take on the St. Louis Cardinals (76-75) Wednesday in the 3rd game of a 4-game set at Busch Stadium at 7:45 p.m. ET. Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s MLB odds around the Pirates vs. Cardinals odds and make our expert MLB picks and predictions for the best bets.

Season series: Cardinals lead 7-4

The Pirates have dropped 4 of 5 after a 3-1 final Tuesday. They have scored just 9 runs in those 5 games and have been dropped 4-0 and 3-1 in the first 2 games in the Lou. OF Bryan De La Cruz gave the Pirates an early lead with his 20th homer of the year, but they couldn’t manufacture anything else.

RHP Lance Lynn was great in what could be his final start at Busch Stadium wearing the birds on the bat. He allowed 1 run and struck out 5 over 6 IP. OF Jordan Walker turned on a fastball left up and put it in the opposing bullpen for his 4th homer of the year.

Pirates at Cardinals projected starters

RHP Jake Woodford vs. RHP Sonny Gray

Woodford (0-6, 8.01 ERA) makes his 7th start (9th appearance). He has a 1.62 WHIP, 2.7 BB/9 and 6.2 K/9 through 30 1/3 innings between the Chicago White Sox and Pirates.

  • Last start: Loss, 3 1/3 IP, 7 ER, 7 H, 3 BB, 3 K in 10-2 home defeat Aug. 24 against Cincinnati Reds
  • Has never faced Cardinals
  • Career as a starter: 4-11, 5.79 ERA, 1.53 WHIP, 5.6 K/9 in 24 GS

Gray (13-9, 3.75 ERA) makes his 28th start. He has a 1.07 WHIP, 2.2 BB/9 and 10.9 K/9 through 160 2/3 innings.

  • Last start: Win, 6 IP, 1 ER, 2 H, 2 BB, 9 K in 6-1 home victory Thursday against Reds
  • June 12 vs. PIT: Win, 7 IP, 1 ER, 4 H, 9 K in 4-2 home victory; 3-1, 3.30 ERA, 38 K’s in 30 IP last 5 GS vs. Pirates

Who’s going yard? Here’s a breakdown of today’s best home run props with our top picks. Include the BetMGM bonus code SBWIRE to score a $1,500 first-bet offer.

Pirates at Cardinals odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list of MLB odds. Lines last updated at 9:25 a.m. ET.

  • Moneyline (ML): Pirates +165 (bet $100 to win $165) | Cardinals -200 (bet $200 to win $100)
  • Run line (RL)/Against the spread (ATS): Pirates +1.5 (-125) | Cardinals -1.5 (+105)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 8 (O: -105 | U: -115)

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3012″ ]

Pirates at Cardinals picks and predictions

Prediction

Cardinals 5, Pirates 4

Moneyline

We cashed both of our bets here yesterday, including a +150 Cardinals RL. Woodford will be amped to pitch against his former club, but unfortunately for him, he has been throwing batting practice this year. The Cards are priced out of range, but take SONNY GRAY OVER 6.5 STRIKEOUTS (-125). He has 7+ K’s in 3 of 4 GS and whiffed 9 Buccos earlier this year.

Run line/Against the spread

I like Pittsburgh to remain competitive in this one. The Cards used closer Ryan Helsley Tuesday night, and he threw 16 pitches. He might be iffy Wednesday.

Take the PIRATES +1.5 (-125).

Over/Under

It’s slated to be 88 degrees with a 5-mph breeze blowing out to left-center. This matchup has rendered 6 straight Unders, but I feel the trend breaking Wednesday night. Woodford has been awful, and Gray has a tendency for a bad inning.

Take the OVER 8 (-105).

Play our free daily Pick’em Challenge and win! Play now!

[gambcom-standard rankid=”5″ ]

For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.

Follow Ryan Dodson on Twitter/X. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter/X and like us on Facebook.

Fantasy baseball help from BaseballHQ.com:
Subscribe now to dominate the competition.

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1372]

Pittsburgh Pirates at St. Louis Cardinals odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Tuesday’s Pittsburgh Pirates at St. Louis Cardinals odds and lines, with MLB expert picks and predictions.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3011″ ]

The Pittsburgh Pirates (71-79) take on the St. Louis Cardinals (75-75) Tuesday in the 2nd game of a 4-game set at Busch Stadium at 7:45 p.m. ET. Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s MLB odds around the Pirates vs. Cardinals odds and make our expert MLB picks and predictions for the best bets.

Season series: Cardinals lead 6-4

Monday’s focus was on rookie phenom RHP Paul Skenes, and he was good, cashing an Over 6.5 K’s for us. Cards RHP Andre Pallante told us to hold his beer and struck out 9 Buccos over 7 shutout innings. The Bucs fell 4-0 Monday as they amassed just 4 hits. The Pirates have lost 3 of 4 as the sun is beginning to set on their season.

I mentioned the Cards do this weird thing where they get swept by a bad team and then play up to their competition. They did that against Skenes, handing him the 2nd of his 3 losses of his bright career. They scored 4 runs on 7 hits to snap a 3-game losing streak.

Pirates at Cardinals projected starters

LHP Bailey Falter vs. RHP Lance Lynn

Falter (8-7, 4.20 ERA) makes his 26th start. He has a 1.28 WHIP, 2.7 BB/9 and 6.2 K/9 through 128 2/3 innings.

  • Last start: Win, 7 1/3 IP, 0 ER, 2 H, 3 BB, 5 K in 3-1 home victory Wednesday against Miami Marlins
  • June 12 at St. Louis: Loss, 4 IP, 3 ER, 8 H, 1 BB, 5 K in 4-2 setback

Lynn (6-4, 3.96 ERA) makes his 23rd start. He has a 1.36 WHIP, 3.4 BB/9 and 8.4 K/9 through 111 1/3 innings.

  • Last start: No-decision, 5 IP, 1 ER, 5 H, 1 BB, 7 K in 2-1 home win Wednesday against Cincinnati Reds
  • 2 GS vs. Pittsburgh this year: 0-0, 2.89 ERA (3 ER in 9 1/3 IP) 7 K

Who’s going yard? Here’s a breakdown of today’s best home run props with our top picks. Include the BetMGM bonus code SBWIRE to score a $1,500 first-bet offer.

Pirates at Cardinals odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list of MLB odds. Lines last updated at 2:20 p.m. ET.

  • Moneyline (ML): Pirates +120 (bet $100 to win $120) | Cardinals -145 (bet $145 to win $100)
  • Run line (RL)/Against the spread (ATS): Pirates +1.5 (-185) | Cardinals -1.5 (+150)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 8 (O: -105 | U: -115)

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3012″ ]

Pirates at Cardinals picks and predictions

Prediction

Cardinals 4, Pirates 2

Moneyline

The Cards looked like the superior team Monday, and they could revert back to their typical mediocrity. So I’m not interested in them at -145.

PASS.

Run line/Against the spread

Instead, I’ll take the risk/reward of the RL here at +150. The Pirates have scored 3 runs or fewer in 4 of 5, and the Cards’ pen is rested. Of the Cards’ 6 wins against them this season, half of them have been by multiple runs.

Take the CARDINALS -1.5 (+150).

Over/Under

It’s slated to be 84 degrees with a 6-mph wind blowing right to left. The Under has smashed in 8 of 10 meetings between the teams this season.

I’ll take the UNDER 8 (-115).

Play our free daily Pick’em Challenge and win! Play now!

[gambcom-standard rankid=”5″ ]

For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.

Follow Ryan Dodson on Twitter/X. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter/X and like us on Facebook.

Fantasy baseball help from BaseballHQ.com:
Subscribe now to dominate the competition.

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1372]

Pittsburgh Pirates at St. Louis Cardinals odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Monday’s Pittsburgh Pirates at St. Louis Cardinals odds and lines, with MLB expert picks and predictions.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3011″ ]

The Pittsburgh Pirates (71-78) take on the St. Louis Cardinals (74-75) Monday in the opener of a 4-game set at Busch Stadium at 7:45 p.m. ET. Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s MLB odds around the Pirates vs. Cardinals odds and make our expert MLB picks and predictions for the best bets.

Season series: Cardinals lead 5-4

The Pirates avoided a 3-game sweep against the Kansas City Royals with a 4-3 win Sunday at basically a -108 pick’-em price. 3B Isiah Kiner-Falefa went 3-for-5 with an RBI as the Bucs improved to 5-2 over their last 7 games.

The Cardinals playoff hopes took a big hit over the weekend as they were swept in 3 at the Toronto Blue Jays. The Cards lost 4-3 in 11 innings Friday, lost 7-2 Saturday and fell 3-2 Sunday — St. Louis was a minor underdog in all 3 games. The recurring theme was what it has been all year — struggling to score runs and drive in runners in scoring position. The Cards have lost 5 of their last 7.

Pirates at Cardinals projected starters

RHP Paul Skenes vs. RHP Andre Pallante

Skenes (10-2, 2.10 ERA) makes his 21st start. The rookie has a 0.99 WHIP, 2.3 BB/9 and 11.3 K/9 through 120 innings.

  • Last start: Win, 6 IP, 1 ER, 6 H, 1 BB, 9 K in 3-2 home victory Sept. 9
  • Road splits: 4-1, 1.49 ERA (48 1/3 IP, 8 ER), 0.87 WHIP, 12.7 K/9 in 8 starts
  • Career vs. Cardinals: 0-1, 1.23 ERA (14 2/3 IP, 2 ER), 9 H, 1 HR, 0 BB, 16 K in 2 starts (both this season)

Pallante (6-8, 4.13 ERA) makes his 18th start (27th appearance). He has a 1.40 WHIP, 4.0 BB/9 and 6.8 K/9 through 102 1/3 innings.

  • Last start: Loss, 5 IP, 3 ER, 6 H, 5 BB, 6 K in 3-0 home setback to Cincinnati Reds Tuesday
  • Home splits: 4-5, 4.73 ERA (53 1/3 IP, 28 ER), 1.52 WHIP, 7.1 K/9 in 13 games (9 starts)
  • Career vs. Pirates: 0-1, 3.33 ERA (27 IP, 10 ER), 1.26 WHIP, 4.3 K/9 in 15 games (2 starts)
  • Career starts vs. Pirates: 0-0, 1.38 ERA (13 IP, 2 ER), 0.77 WHIP, 8 K in 2 starts (both this season)

Who’s going yard? Here’s a breakdown of today’s best home run props with our top picks. Include the BetMGM bonus code SBWIRE to score a $1,500 first-bet offer.

Pirates at Cardinals odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list of MLB odds. Lines last updated at 4:19 p.m. ET.

  • Moneyline (ML): Pirates -145 (bet $145 to win $100) | Cardinals +120 (bet $100 to win $120)
  • Run line (RL)/Against the spread (ATS): Pirates -1.5 (+120) | Cardinals +1.5 (-145)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 7 (O: -115 | U: -105)

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3012″ ]

Pirates at Cardinals picks and predictions

Prediction

Pirates 4, Cardinals 2

Moneyline

The Cardinals have this weird thing of playing up to their competition. But Pallante has looked gassed. He has given up 8 earned runs over 10 innings in his last 2 starts. If he gives up half of that, it’s over against Skenes.

TAKE PIRATES (-145).

Run line/Against the spread

Of Pittsburgh’s 4 wins against St. Louis this year, only 1 of them was by multiple runs. While I’m forecasting a multi-run victory, I’ll be BETTING PAUL SKENES OVER 6.5 K’S (-120). He had 8 K’s in each of his 2 starts vs. the Cardinals.

Over/Under

The books have this one on point. There were 2-1 finals in both of Skenes’ starts against the Cards this year — 1 win and 1 loss. The wild card is Pallante, who looks cooked with awful control.

LEAN UNDER 7 (-105) or stay away.

Play our free daily Pick’em Challenge and win! Play now!

[gambcom-standard rankid=”5″ ]

For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.

Follow Ryan Dodson on Twitter/X. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter/X and like us on Facebook.

Fantasy baseball help from BaseballHQ.com:
Subscribe now to dominate the competition.

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1372]

Pittsburgh Pirates at St. Louis Cardinals odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Thursday’s Pittsburgh Pirates at St. Louis Cardinals odds and lines, with MLB expert picks, predictions and best bets.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3011″ ]

The Pittsburgh Pirates (32-35) and St. Louis Cardinals (31-34) face off Thursday in the finale of a 3-game series. First pitch from Busch Stadium is set for 2:15 p.m. ET. Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Pirates vs. Cardinals odds and make our expert MLB picks and predictions for the best bets.

Season series: Tied 1-1

St. Louis beat Pittsburgh 4-2 Wednesday while cashing as a -170 home favorite. Cardinals 3B Nolan Arenado doubled in a run to make it 1-0 in the 3rd inning, and St. Louis extended the lead to 3-0 with 2 runs in the 4th. St. Louis has won 2 of its last 3 games.

LHP Bailey Falter was credited with the loss, allowing 3 ER on 8 hits and 1 walk with 5 K’s in 4 IP. Pittsburgh has dropped 2 of its last 3.

Pirates at Cardinals projected starters

RHP Mitch Keller vs. RHP Lance Lynn

Keller (8-3, 3.16 ERA) makes his 14th start. He has a 1.24 WHIP, 2.5 BB/9 and 8.4 K/9 in 79 2/3 innings.

  • Last start: Win, 6 IP, 0 ER, 7 H, 2 BB, 8 K in 3-0 win over Minnesota Twins Friday
  • Career vs. St. Louis: 2-1, 3.29 ERA (54 2/3 IP, 20 ER), 1.26 WHIP, 7.2 K/9 in 10 starts

Lynn (2-3, 3.58 ERA) makes his 14th start. He has a 1.38 WHIP, 3.7 BB/9 and 8.7 K/9 in 65 1/3 innings.

  • Last start: No-decision, 4 IP, 4 ER, 6 H, 2 BB, 6 K in 8-5 win vs. Colorado Rockies Friday
  • Career vs. Pittsburgh: 7-8, 5.31 ERA (118 2/3 IP, 70 ER), 1.52 WHIP, 8.2 K/9 in 22 starts and 2 relief appearances

Win your fantasy baseball league with BaseballHQ.com. For decades, BHQ has been helping players just like you win! BHQ offers Draft Prep and full-season subscriptions. Sign up today and start winning!

Pirates at Cardinals odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 6:30 a.m. ET.

  • Moneyline (ML): Pirates -110 (bet $110 to win $100) | Cardinals -110 (bet $110 to win $100)
  • Run line (RL)/Against the spread (ATS): Pirates -1.5 (+150) | Cardinals +1.5 (-185)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 8.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3012″ ]

Pirates at Cardinals picks and predictions

Prediction

Pirates 4, Cardinals 3

Moneyline

LEAN PIRATES (-110).

The Pirates are 7-3 in the last 10 meetings overall and 3-2 in the last 5 in St. Louis. Pittsburgh is also the slightly hotter team overall at 6-4 in its last 10 games, while the Cardinals are only 5-5 in their last 10.

This is a very slight lean, as Pittsburgh is only 1-2 in its last 3 road games, while St. Louis is 2-1 in its last 3 at home.

Run line/Against the spread

PASS.

I like the Cardinals to cover here as +1.5 (-185) underdogs, but the line is set too high to risk betting on. Bet on the moneyline and/or O/U instead.

Over/Under

BET UNDER 8.5 (-110).

The Under has hit in 3 straight for St. Louis and is 4-2 in its last 6 home games. For Pittsburgh, the Under is 4-1 in its last 5 games. The Under has also hit in back-to-back Pittsburgh-St. Louis matchups and is 6-4 in the last 10 meetings.

Play our free daily Pick’em Challenge and win! Play now!

[gambcom-standard rankid=”5″ ]

For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.

Follow @payton_shanks on Twitter/X. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter/X and like us on Facebook.

Additional MLB coverage:
BaseballHQ Fantasy Baseball

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1372]

Pittsburgh Pirates at St. Louis Cardinals odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Tuesday’s Pittsburgh Pirates at St. Louis Cardinals and lines, with MLB expert picks, predictions and best bets.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3011″ ]

The Pittsburgh Pirates (31-34) take on the St. Louis Cardinals (31-33) Tuesday in the opener of a 3-game set at Busch Stadium at 7:45 p.m. ET. Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Pirates vs. Cardinals odds and make our expert MLB picks and predictions for the best bets.

Season series: First meeting; Pirates won 9-4 last year

The Pirates had Monday off after completing a 4-2 homestand in which they took 2 each from the Los Angeles Dodgers and Minnesota Twins. Rookie phenom RHP Paul Skenes toes the rubber Tuesday. He’s still unbeaten and has 38 K’s in 27 IP so far. He has given up 5 ER and 3 HRs in 11 IP over his last 2 starts, though. That’s something to keep an eye on as the league gets more tape on him.

The Cards opened their homestand with a 4-game split with the Colorado Rockies. They have scored 5+ runs in 5 of 8 games. After a miserable start to the season offensively, they’re now tied for 21st with 4 runs/game. SS Masyn Winn has been a catalyst atop the order, hitting .306 with 3 HR, 23 RBIs and 8 steals.

Pirates at Cardinals projected starters

RHP Paul Skenes vs. RHP Miles Mikolas

Skenes (3-0, 3.00 ERA) makes his 6th start. He has a 1.00 WHIP, 2.0 BB/9 and 12.7 K/9 in 27 IP.

  • Last start: Win, 5 IP, 3 ER, 6 H, 1 BB, 8 K Wednesday against Los Angeles Dodgers
  • Has never faced Cardinals
  • Home/road splits: Away – 2-0, 1.50 ERA, 0.42 WHIP, 15.0 K/9 in 2 GS; Home – 1-0, 4.20 ERA, 1.47 WHIP, 10.8 K/9 in 3 GS

Mikolas (4-6, 5.32 ERA) makes his 14th start. He has a 1.28 WHIP, 1.8 BB/9 and 6.7 K/9 in 71 IP.

  • Last start: Win, 6 IP, 2 ER, 5 H, 0 BB, 3 K Wednesday against Houston Astros
  • Last 5 starts vs. Pirates: 1-2, 3.21 ERA, 1.39 WHIP, 21 K in 28 IP

Win your fantasy baseball league with BaseballHQ.com. For decades, BHQ has been helping players just like you win! BHQ offers Draft Prep and full-season subscriptions. Sign up today and start winning!

Pirates at Cardinals odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 12:48 p.m. ET.

  • Moneyline (ML): Pirates -135 (bet $135 to win $100) | Cardinals +115 (bet $100 to win $115)
  • Run line (RL)/Against the spread (ATS): Pirates -1.5 (+135) | Cardinals +1.5 (-160)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 7.5 (O: -105 | U: -115)

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3012″ ]

Pirates at Cardinals picks and predictions

Prediction

Cardinals 5, Pirates 3

Moneyline

I’m a little torn here because I fully expect Skenes to dominate, but he has yet to go past 6 IP in any of his starts. The Pirates have the 6th-worst ERA (4.50) in baseball.

The numbers don’t do it justice, but the Cards’ pen has been a strength. They’re 12th with a 3.71 ERA, but the back end of the pen has been lights out. The Cards get to the Bucs after Skenes exits.

TAKE CARDINALS (+115).

Run line/Against the spread

I don’t like the RL here, but I fully expect Skenes to get close to 10 K’s. I look for the Cards to stack a bunch of lefties with 2B Nolan Gorman and DH Matt Carpenter very K-prone.

TAKE PAUL SKENES OVER 7.5 (+105).

Play our free daily Pick’em Challenge and win! Play now!

Over/Under

It’s slated to be 80 degrees with a humidity expected to push close to 60% through the evening. The wind is a non-factor, blowing right-to-left at 3 mph.

The Cards are 4-5-1 O/U over their last 10, and the Pirates are 6-4. The Over is also 6-4 in the last 10 meetings.

Mikolas has a 5+ ERA, but he has a 2.40 ERA over his last 5 starts. He’ll keep the Cards in the game until the Pirates’ bullpen runs out there. This total is too small for me, though. If it swells any higher, I’m probably out, but I’ll TAKE OVER 7.5 (-105).

[gambcom-standard rankid=”5″ ]

While waiting for the first pitch or on off days, you can fill that time with online casino games including slots, blackjack and more, at some of the best legal casinos in the US.

For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.

Follow Ryan Dodson on Twitter/X. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter/X and like us on Facebook.

Additional MLB coverage:
BaseballHQ Fantasy Baseball

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1372]

Pittsburgh Pirates at St. Louis Cardinals odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Thursday’s Pittsburgh Pirates at St. Louis Cardinals odds and lines, with MLB expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Pittsburgh Pirates (7-5) open a 4-game series with the St. Louis Cardinals (5-7) on Thursday at Busch Stadium. First pitch is scheduled for 7:45 p.m. ET. Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Pirates vs. Cardinals odds and make our expert MLB picks and predictions for the best bets.

Season series: First meeting of 2023. The Cardinals went 13-6 against the Pirates in 2022.

The Pirates lost 7-0 to the Houston Astros Wednesday, going 1-2 in the 3-game home series. Pittsburgh has alternated wins and losses in its last 6 games.

The Cardinals secured a 7-4 victory over the Colorado Rockies on Wednesday to give them 2 consecutive wins and pull off a 2-1 series victory. 2B Nolan Gorman has hit a tie-breaking HR for a 2nd-straight game.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3011″ ]

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3012″ ]

Pirates at Cardinals projected starters

RHP Vince Velasquez vs. LHP Jordan Montgomery

Velasquez (0-2, 9.82 ERA) makes his 3rd start. He has a 2.18 WHIP, 6.1 BB/9 and 4.9 K/9 through 7 1/3 IP.

  • His teams have lost his last 6 appearances dating back to last season
  • Allowed 5 ER on 6 H and 4 BB with 1 K in 2 2/3 IP in last start vs. the Chicago White Sox on Apr. 8

Montgomery (2-0, 2.25 ERA) makes his 3rd start. He has a 1.00 WHIP, 2.3 BB/9 and 9.0 K/9 through 12 IP.

  • Has been credited with the win in 3 straight starts dating back to last season
  • Surrendered 0 ER on 3 H and 2 BB with 9 K in 7 IP in last start vs. the Milwaukee Brewers on Apr. 8

Pirates at Cardinals odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 8:55 a.m. ET.

  • Moneyline (ML): Pirates +200 (bet $100 to win $200) | Cardinals -250 (bet $250 to win $100)
  • Run line (RL)/Against the spread (ATS): Pirates +1.5 (+105) | Cardinals -1.5 (-125)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 8.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

Win your fantasy baseball league with BaseballHQ.com. For decades, BHQ has been helping players just like you win! Use the couple code SBW23 for $15 OFF a Draft Prep or full-season subscription. New customer offer; expires 4/30/2023. Subscribe today and start winning!

Pirates at Cardinals picks and predictions

Prediction

Cardinals 7, Pirates 3

Moneyline

AVOID.

Betting on the Cardinals (-250) to win straight up isn’t advised despite their clear pitching advantage in this matchup.

Run line/Against the spread

BET CARDINALS -1.5 (-125).

The Cardinals will have arguably their best pitcher on the mound in Montgomery and Velasquez has struggled to begin the season for the Pirates. Even when Velasquez exits the game, St. Louis should also have success against Pittsburgh’s bullpen.

Play our free daily Pick’em Challenge and win! Play now!

Over/Under

OVER 8.5 (-110) is the play in this NL Central showdown. The Cardinals are swinging a hot bat and they have a few guys who have had plenty of success in their careers against Velasquez.

The Over is 4-1 in the last 5 meetings between these teams in St. Louis and 3-1-1 in the last 5 meetings overall. The Pirates are also 8-1-1 to the Over in their last 10 games against a southpaw.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”5″ ]

For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.

Follow Skyler Carlin on Twitter. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

Additional MLB coverage:
BaseballHQ Fantasy Baseball
BaseballPress.com: Your source for every MLB lineup

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1372]

Pittsburgh Pirates at St. Louis Cardinals odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Friday’s Pittsburgh Pirates at St. Louis Cardinals odds and lines, with MLB expert picks and predictions.

The Pittsburgh Pirates (59-97) open a 3-game set with the St. Louis Cardinals (90-66) Friday at Busch Stadium. First pitch is set for 8:15 p.m. ET. Let’s analyze Tipico Sportsbook‘s lines around the Pirates vs. Cardinals odds with MLB picks and predictions.

Season series: Cardinals lead 10-3

The Pirates come into the Gateway City as winners of 3 games in a row and 4 of 5. They have 24-year-old RHP Johan Oviedo on the bump today in his first matchup against the team that traded him for LHP Jose Quintana at the trade deadline.

Oviedo has a great arm, but his control is spotty. Before we even get into the meat of this, I love OVIEDO OVER 3.5 K’s (-117). He has struck out 4+ in all but 1 start this year.

St. Louis has really taken its foot off the pedal, losing 6 of its last 10 contests, but having clinched the NL Central title along the way. However, the Cardinals come in rested after using a skeleton lineup Wednesday after clinching the division and a day off Thursday. It might take a couple of innings, but they should be ready to hit.

Play our free daily Pick’em Challenge and win! Play now!

Pirates at Cardinals projected starters

RHP Johan Oviedo vs. RHP Jack Flaherty

Oviedo (4-2, 3.13 ERA) makes his 7th start and 20th appearance. He has a 1.28 WHIP, 4.1 BB/9 and 9.6 K/9 in 46 IP.

  • Last 5 starts since trade to Pirates: 2-1, 3.05 ERA, 1.26 WHIP, 10.0 K/9
  • 1-3, 3.75 ERA, 1.21 WHIP, 7.5 K/9 in 48 IP at Busch Stadium in his career (as a member of Cardinals)

Flaherty (1-1, 4.97 ERA) makes his 8th start. He has a 1.76 WHIP, 6.2 BB/9 and 8.1 K/9 in 29 IP.

  • Last 4 starts: 1-1, 4.71 ERA, 1.62 WHIP, 8.6 K/9
  • 4 home starts: 15 IP, 17 H, 8 ER (4.80 ERA), 7 BB, 16 K

Pirates at Cardinals odds

Provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 12:50 p.m. ET.

  • Money line (ML): Pirates +170 (bet $100 to win $170) | Cardinals -210 (bet $210 to win $100)
  • Run line (RL)/Against the spread (ATS): Pirates +1.5 (-135) | Cardinals -1.5 (+110)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 7.5 (O: +110 | U: -135)

Claim your risk-free bet up to $350. Catch the excitement and start betting with Tipico Sportsbook! New customer offer in CO and NJ. 21+, see Tipico.com for Terms and Conditions. Bet now!

Pirates at Cardinals picks and predictions

Prediction

Cardinals 7, Pirates 3

Money line

This is the first time the Cards return home since capturing the NL Central crown. The place will be abuzz, and Oviedo will be motivated to show them the horse they gave up. But, he’ll have trouble getting through the lineup 2 or 3 times.

Conversely, Flaherty has really struggled to throw strikes after missing much of the season. His mechanics just aren’t there, and his arm talent is guiding him. There will be runs on both sides early. OVER 3.5 TOTAL RUNS FIRST 5 INNINGS (-122) feels like a given, and I would consider OVER 4.5 RUNS FIRST 5 (+133) for a HALF-UNIT as well.

Run line/Against the spread

The Cards are 10-3 against the Bucs this year, and 8 of those were decided by more than a run. There’s an outside chance that Oviedo will contain his former mates and hurl a gem, but he has historically hit a wall in the 4th and 5th innings. That’s where the home team will get it in.

Take the CARDINALS -1.5 (+110) at plus money.

Over/Under

Eight runs feels like a bargain. These two have bludgeoned each other for 8 runs in 11 of the 13 games. Flaherty has given up 3 ER in 3 straight starts, and Oviedo has in 4 of 7. The wind is blowing in on a 64-degree day, but it won’t matter. Take the OVER 7.5 (+110) and thank us later.

Want action on this game or any other MLB contests? Bet legally online with a trusted partner: Tipico Sportsbook, SportsbookWire’s official sportsbook partner in CO and NJ. Bet now!

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW, or try out our USA TODAY Parlay Calculator. Please gamble responsibly.

Follow Ryan Dodson on Twitter. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

Additional MLB coverage:
BaseballHQ Fantasy Baseball
BaseballPress.com: Your source for every MLB lineup

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1372]

[mm-video type=playlist id=01fb7dafw2b08817yr player_id=none image=https://sportsbookwire.usatoday.com/wp-content/plugins/mm-video/images/playlist-icon.png]

Pittsburgh Pirates at St. Louis Cardinals odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Wednesday’s Baltimore Orioles at New York Yankees odds and lines, with MLB expert picks and predictions.

The Pittsburgh Pirates (24-37) and St. Louis Cardinals (37-27) wrap up a 4-game series at Busch Stadium Wednesday at 7:45 p.m. ET. Let’s analyze Tipico Sportsbook‘s lines around the Pirates vs. Cardinals odds with MLB picks and predictions.

Season series: St. Louis leads 8-1

The Pirates were swept in a Tuesday doubleheader at Busch and have lost 6 in a row to the Redbirds. The Pirates tote a 9-game losing streak into this series finale. They have slashed a mere .190/.236/.309 (.545 OPS) during the stretch.

St. Louis pitching has led the way in the Cardinals going 5-1 over their last 6 games. Over that span, the Redbirds have registered a tidy 2.83 ERA.

Pirates at Cardinals projected starters

RHP Roansy Contreras vs. RHP Jack Flaherty

The rookie Contreras (1-1, 2.57 ERA) has clocked a 1.18 WHIP, 2.9 BB/9 and 10.6 K/9 through 28 IP in 7 games (4 starts).

  • Owns a 2.21 ERA over his last 20 1/3 IP – all 4 of his starts since May 24
  • Appeared in just 1 game last season, tossing 3 scoreless innings in his MLB debut during a home start vs. the Chicago Cubs Sept. 29

Flaherty is coming off the 60-day IL (shoulder) to make his 2022 debut. He went 9-2 with 3.22 ERA in 78 1/3 IP last season. He has a 3.34 career ERA across 5 MLB seasons.

  • Has held current Pittsburgh batters to a whiff-heavy .457 OPS
  • Notched a 2.61 ERA at Busch Stadium over 2020-21
  • Coming off 2 rehab efforts at Triple-A, and threw only 58 pitches in his most recent outing.

Pirates at Cardinals odds and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 3:02 p.m. ET.

  • Money line: Pirates +145 (bet $100 to win $145) | Cardinals -180 (bet $180 to win $100)
  • Run line (RL): Pirates +1.5 (-140) | Cardinals -1.5 (+115)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 8.5 (O: -112 | U: -108)

Exclusive USA TODAY Network offer: Deposit $10 or more, get $200 in instant bet credits at Tipico Sportsbook! New customer offer in CO and NJ. 21+, see Tipico.com for Terms and Conditions. Place your legal, online sports bets at Tipico. Let’s make this interesting. Bet now!

Pirates at Cardinals picks and predictions

Prediction

Pirates 5, Cardinals 4

Money line

Contreras has been sharp and that’s been alongside a .357 batting average on balls in play. The Cards are a right-leaning lineup that does not do much damage against that side.

With Flaherty being a return-from-injury question mark and the back end of the St. Louis pen being on a pretty substantial fatigue watch, TAKE PITTSBURGH (+145).

Win your fantasy baseball league with BaseballHQ.com. For decades, BHQ has been helping players just like you win! Use the couple code SBW22 for 20% OFF full-season subscription. New customer offer; expires 6/30/2022. Subscribe today and start winning!

Run line/Against the spread

Same calculus as above, although both teams play few 1-run affairs. STEER CLEAR, but Pittsburgh +1.5 is worth a look at -140.

Over/Under

Mixed signals: PASS.

Pittsburgh is the 3rd-best Under team in the majors, posting a 23-32-6 O/U record. The Houston Astros are 1st at 19-43, just ahead of the Detroit Tigers’ 21-38-2 O/U mark. The Pirates are 12-16-3 O/U on the road.

St. Louis is 32-29-3 O/U, including an MLB 3rd-best 19-12-2 O/U mark at home. The Atlanta Braves’ 20-12-2 home O/U and the Cincinnati Reds’ 18-11 O/U at home rank 1st and 2nd, respectively.

Bet legally online with a trusted partner: Tipico Sportsbook, Sportsbook Wire’s official sportsbook partner in CO, NJ and soon IA. Bet now!

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW, or try out our USA TODAY Parlay Calculator. Please gamble responsibly.

Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

Additional MLB coverage:
BaseballHQ Fantasy Baseball
BaseballPress.com: Your source for every MLB lineup

Gannett may earn revenue from Tipico for audience referrals to betting services. Tipico has no influence over nor are any such revenues in any way dependent on or linked to the newsrooms or news coverage. See Tipico.com for Terms and Conditions. 21+ only. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (NJ), 1-800-522-4700 (CO), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA).

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1372]

Pittsburgh Pirates at St. Louis Cardinals odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Thursday’s Pittsburgh Pirates at St. Louis Cardinals odds and lines, with MLB expert picks and predictions.

The Pittsburgh Pirates and St. Louis Cardinals lift the lid on the new season when they meet Thursday at Busch Stadium for a 4:15 p.m. ET first pitch. Let’s analyze Tipico Sportsbook‘s lines around the Pirates vs. Cardinals odds with MLB picks and predictions.

Season series: The Cardinals won last year’s season series 12-7.

The Pirates got off to a solid start last season with a 12-13 run in April. But they finished with 101 losses (61-101) and finished last in the NL Central.

The Cardinals played .639 ball (46-26) after the All-Star break last season. They took second place in the NL Central and earned an NL Wild Card berth.

Pirates at Cardinals: Projected starters

RHP JT Brubaker vs. RHP Adam Wainwright

Brubaker (2021: 5-13, 5.36 ERA) gets the ball for the opener. He logged a 1.30 WHIP, 2.8 BB/9, and 9.3 K/9 through 124 1/3 IP last season.

  • Current St. Louis bats own a 1.063 OPS against him.
  • Has logged a 6.01 ERA while allowing an .847 OPS across 18 career road games.

Wainwright (2021: 17-7, 3.05 ERA) counters for the Cards. He clocked a 1.06 WHIP, 2.2 BB/9, and 7.6 K/9 across 206 1/3 IP last season.

  • Logged a 30-inning 0.30 ERA against the Pirates in 2021. Has held current Pittsburgh batters to a whiff-heavy .289 OPS in his career.
  • Owns a career 2.85 ERA at home.

Pirates at Cardinals odds, spread and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 9:15 a.m. ET.

  • Money line: Pirates +145 (bet $100 to win $145) | Cardinals -180 (bet $180 to win $100)
  • Against the spread (ATS): Pirates +1.5 (-140) | Cardinals -1.5 (+115)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 7.5 (O: -130 | U: +105)

Exclusive USA TODAY Network offer: Deposit $10 or more, get $200 in instant bet credits at Tipico Sportsbook! New customer offer in CO and NJ. 21+, see Tipico.com for Terms and Conditions. Place your legal, online sports bets at Tipico. Let’s make this interesting. Bet now!

Pirates at Cardinals prediction and picks

Prediction

Cardinals 5, Pirates 4

Money line

Peg the Cardinals as being a tad overvalued by their 2021 performance and the assessment of the Pirates as swinging the other way. That amounts to underlying production numbers not fully backing the St. Louis win percentage and the same numbers giving Pittsburgh a small benefit of the doubt.

However, that leverage is not much at all. The same principle, however, does apply to these starting pitchers where xFIP and SIERA numbers for Brubaker were not as weighty last season, and where Wainwright’s show his 3.05 ERA to have some mirage comparisons.

All that said, a +175 would be the minimum to consider for the Pittsburgh side: PASS.

Win your fantasy baseball league with BaseballHQ.com. For decades, BHQ has been helping players just like you win! Use the couple code SBW22 for $15 OFF a Draft Prep or full-season subscription. New customer offer; expires 4/30/2022. Subscribe today and start winning!

Run line/Against the spread

Bullpens and depth will loom large all month. Starters aren’t built up and the season swings into gear with rosters at 28 men. Advantage St. Louis in this one, but PIRATES +1.5 (-140) is the play with the best leverage overall.

Over/Under

Both clubs sported above-average offensive numbers in spring training. A chilly-but-strong-wind-out-to-right-center day is in the forecast. BACK THE OVER 7.5 (-130).

Bet legally online with a trusted partner: Tipico Sportsbook, Sportsbook Wire’s official sportsbook partner in CO, NJ and soon IA. Bet now!

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW. Please gamble responsibly.

Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

Gannett may earn revenue from Tipico for audience referrals to betting services. Tipico has no influence over nor are any such revenues in any way dependent on or linked to the newsrooms or news coverage. See Tipico.com for Terms and Conditions. 21+ only. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (NJ), 1-800-522-4700 (CO), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA).

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1372]