Cardinals vs Pirates Prediction, Picks & Odds for Today’s MLB Game

Paul Skenes continues to prove why he’s one of the best pitchers in baseball. The right-hander has a 2.12 ERA in 17 starts, and while his 4-7 record isn’t exactly elite, that’s because the Pittsburgh Pirates rarely provide him with run support. However, Skenes is in the worst stretch of his season right now. 

The youngster has cashed the Over in earned runs surrendered in back-to-back outings, allowing four to the Brewers last week and two to the Tigers the start prior. Neither appearance can be considered terrible, but for Skenes’ standards, it’s not up to par. 

His total is at just 1.5 tonight, and Skenes allowed two earned runs to the Cardinals back in May in six innings of work. Of course, he could still have a respectable start, but St. Louis does have one of the better lineups in baseball. They’re also hitting .217 vs Skenes in 92 at-bats. 

I don’t expect them to light Skenes up, but the Cards will do a bit of damage. For what it’s worth, Skenes’ ERA sits at 2.32 at home compared to 1.79 on the road. It won’t be a flawless outing for the NL Cy Young hopeful.

Nolan Arenado has found his name in trade rumors over the last year, but he’s ultimately stayed put, and the veteran continues to help the Cardinals push for a playoff spot this season. While his numbers don’t jump off the page with a .247 average and 10 home runs, Arenado is swinging it well lately. 

The third baseman has at least one hit in three of his last four appearances, with a pair of multi-hit games during that span. Arenado has an impressive track record against Skenes as well, going 5-for-14 with a home run. After a hitless evening on Monday, Arenado will get back on track.

Over to the Bucs’ Bryan Reynolds, who's raking right now amid Pittsburgh’s hot streak. Reynolds is batting just .242 on the year but he’s registered six multi-hit games in his last eight contests. Reynolds was 2-for-4 in Monday’s victory over the Cardinals. 

He’s really coming alive offensively and although Reynolds is only 2-for-17 lifetime against St. Louis starter Andre Pallante, he’s batting .375 over the last two weeks alone. I have no doubts Reynolds will extend his hit streak to eight games.