Martinez, Cards battle Pirates at Busch Stadium
Despite maddening weather and a multitude of delays, the Cardinals managed to make up a fair amount of ground over the weekend. Will the Fourth of July produce similar satisfaction?
Pittsburgh, fresh off a sweep itself, hits St. Louis for the opener of an extended series at 2:15 p.m. ET. Oddsmakers at online sports book BetDSI prefer the host club as a 1.5-run favorite. Clint Hurdle’s troops, meanwhile, symbolize +175 underdogs.
By virtue of stomping the Brewers in three straight stormy contests, the Redbirds begin this afternoon’s action eight games behind the Cubs in the National League Central. Chicago’s division lead hasn’t been so “slim” since May 25. Furthermore, Joe Maddon’s group holds a 12-15 record over the past four weeks.
Still, St. Louis at least acknowledges the Pirates’ eagerness to construct a three-team race all over again. They carry a four-game winning streak into today’s proceedings, not to mention a wealth of motivation. Pittsburgh was routed by the Cards last month at PNC Park, getting outscored by a combined 22-7 during those three affairs.
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In a few hours, Hurdle hopes for a substantial turnaround from Jonathon Niese. The usually reliable lefty suffered a huge setback several nights ago, surrendering nine hits and five runs to the Mariners. He’s 0-1 in two assignments vs. the Cardinals in 2016.
Mike Matheny counters with Carlos Martinez, he of the six consecutive quality starts. The righty should do a fine job of corralling a refreshed Andrew McCutchen and the rest of the visiting gang. (Pittsburgh’s center fielder missed the squad’s finale against Oakland to attend to a minor heel injury.) Anticipate numerous ground balls and a low-scoring clash in general.
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