Even with their recent run of success, the Cardinals have had trouble putting runs up on the board. Their 91 runs scored on the year ranks 26th in MLB, and they’re one of eight teams yet to top 100 runs on the season. MEanwhile, Sonny Gray has been great to start the year, compiling a 2-1 record in three starts, posting an ERA of 1.04. The veteran righty has been given just six runs of support all year. He’s coming off a 2-0 loss to the Brewers, despite the fact Gray gave up just two earned runs — his first two of the season — while scattering five hits and striking out 12.
Overall, the matchup for St. Louis Cardinals hitters is a positive one today. Adrian Houser, who will take the mound for the New York Mets, has been poor this season. He’ll come into this game with an ERA over 7.00, a hard-hit rate in the Bottom 25% of the league, and a barrel rate that follows that. I like the Cardinals to be able to set the table for Nolan Arenado and for him to cash in. He’ll enter this game with the second-highest batting average against the sinker among Cardinals in the lineup. That’s the pitch that Houser favors by a large margin.