Supreme MLB Picks for August 31st, 2024
summary
On Saturday, the New York Yankees are heavily favored to secure a win against the St. Louis Cardinals, especially with their powerful lineup playing at home. This game is expected to be high-scoring, with the Over being a strong bet. The Chicago Cubs are also favored to win in a low-scoring affair against the Washington Nationals, with reliable pitching from Javier Assad. The marquee matchup between the Atlanta Braves and Philadelphia Phillies is likely to be a pitchers’ duel, favoring the Under with Zack Wheeler leading the Phillies to a potential victory. Meanwhile, the Detroit Tigers are expected to win a low-scoring game against the Boston Red Sox, with Tarik Skubal continuing his dominant season. Lastly, the Tampa Bay Rays, led by Shane Baz, are favored in a tight, low-scoring game against the San Diego Padres.
1. St. Louis Cardinals vs. New York Yankees
Prediction: Yankees win; Over 9.5 runs.
Analysis: The Yankees will send Will Warren to the mound, who has struggled with a 9.68 ERA in limited action this season. On the other side, Kyle Gibson (4.54 ERA) pitches for the Cardinals, who have also been inconsistent. Given the Yankees' potent lineup, especially at home, they are favored to win this matchup. However, with both pitchers struggling, the Over is the stronger play as both teams could rack up runs.
2. Chicago Cubs vs. Washington Nationals
Prediction: Cubs win; Under 8.5 runs.
Analysis: Javier Assad (3.15 ERA) has been solid for the Cubs this season, offering stability in their rotation. Dylan Herz (3.84 ERA) for the Nationals has shown promise but has struggled with consistency. The Cubs have the edge due to their better overall lineup and Assad's reliability. However, with both pitchers capable of keeping runs low, the Under is a favorable bet.
3. Atlanta Braves vs. Philadelphia Phillies
Prediction: Phillies win; Under 7.5 runs.
Analysis: This is a marquee pitching matchup between Max Fried (3.50 ERA) and Zack Wheeler (2.74 ERA). Wheeler has been exceptional at home, and the Phillies have one of the best records in the league at Citizens Bank Park. While both offenses are strong, the quality of pitching suggests this will be a low-scoring affair, making the Under a solid bet.
