MLB Cardinals vs. Pirates Picks & Predictions for Saturday, August 18
By ATSSportsline.com
ST. LOUIS, MO (ATS Consultants) –This is the second game of a three-game series between two teams fighting for a wild card spot. Erik Bedard takes the mound for the Pirates against Lance Lynn for the Cardinals. The opening pitch starts at 4:05pmET from Busch Stadium in St. Louis.
ODDS: The oddsmakers have installed the Cardinals as a -170 favorite over the Pirates. The total is 8.5 in most books. The Pirates come in with a 65-53 overall record and are 52-59 Under, while the Tigers are 64-55 overall and are 54-60 Under (records before Friday's games).
LINE MOVEMENT: The Cards opened as a -170 favorite. The total started at 8.5 and remained there at most books.
PUBLIC BETTING: Of the wagers currently placed on tonight’s game, 68% of public bettors favor the Cardinals. These numbers are subject to change, however, so make sure you click on the “Public Betting” link available in this paragraph to get the most up-to-date information.
MLB FREE PICK: Take the Cardinals. According to the latest MLB trends, the Pirates are 2-6 in their last 8 overall, 3-7 in Bedard's last 10 starts, 1-6 in Bedard's last 7 road starts, 0-4 in Bedard's last 4 starts vs. NL Central. Cardinals are 7-1 in their last 8 home games vs. a left-handed starter, 7-2 last 9 vs. NL Central, 19-7 last 26 home games, 16-5 last 21 vs. a left-handed starter, 10-1 in Lynn's last 11 starts vs. NL Central. The Pirates' pitching has been getting rocked almost every game. In fact, they've allowed 5 or more runs in 10 straight games. It's amazing that they've hung in the wild card race, but their bats have still been strong. Bedard is 2-1 in his last three starts, but has a 6.06 ERA. Bedard was also roughed up on July 1 in St. Louis, when he allowed 5 runs in 4 2/3 IP.
SATURDAY MLB FREE PICK: ST. LOUIS CARDINALS -170
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