Braves target three-game sweep of Padres
Jarred Cosart largely failed to distinguish himself as a member of the Marlins. In reference to his tenure with the Padres so far, though, nothing could be further from the truth.
The righty hurler will tackle the National League-worst Braves today, with a 12:10 p.m. ET first pitch at Turner Field. Online sports book BetDSI gives the hosts odds of -143 to prevail. Conversely, Andy Green’s club represents a +128 underdog. The over/under run total holds steady at 8.5.
Since arriving in San Diego as part of a seven-player trade on July 29, Cosart (0-1, 4.23 ERA) has compiled a 2.88 ERA. Just as importantly, the 26-year-old’s worked into the sixth in two of his past three assignments. Most recently, Cosart limited Miami to five hits and two runs in five innings before a blister necessitated his departure.
Atlanta counters with its own burgeoning talent on the mound. Mike Foltynewicz (7-5, 4.30), in his last outing vs. San Francisco, retired 15 of the first 18 batters he faced. The flamethrower went on to twirl 7 2/3 frames of one-run ball.
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With rosters set to expand, both teams are anticipating quality reinforcements. Catcher A.J. Pierzynski (hamstring) is expected to rejoin the Braves, while the Padres can’t wait to welcome back ace reliever Ryan Buchter. In the end, however, this series finale boils down to a pair of starters on the rise. Don’t look for much in the way of offense.
THURSDAY MLB FREE PICK: PADRES/BRAVES UNDER 8.5 RUNS