Phillies/Twins

Credit: NJ.com

Phillies ML (-142)

Backing the Phillies tonight in a bounce back spot after a major slump by the team as a whole. The Phillies have lost 5 of their L7 games and 3 of their L4 since returning from the All Star break. Many would think it’s a good spot to back the Twins as an underdog but I disagree because Zack Wheeler is back on the mound for Philadelphia.

Wheeler hasn’t pitched since 7/9, but his numbers prior to that have been fantastic. Allowing 2 of less earned runs in 15 of 19 starts and 2 or less in 9 of the L10 starts with his sole blemish coming against Baltimore where he was tagged for 8 ER on 9 hits. Wheeler has given up an average of 1.5 runs in his L4 combined starts, and 6 total runs in his L24.2 innings.

Next I want to touch on Richardson for Minnesota. He has been solid through the first half of the season holding a 3.51 ERA but he has consistently given up runs in his L8 starts. Richardson has given up 3 or more ER in 4 of his L8 starts and a combined 16 ER in his L31.1 innings. A little over 1 ER allowed every other inning.

Even with this Phillies offense in a slump I don’t trust a pitcher that has been very susceptible to giving up runs, this talented lineup could find a groove at any moment. Schwarber, Turner, Harper, Realmuto, Castellanos, Marsh and Stott all set to go tonight.

Even with Wheeler on his first start since the All Star break and a slumping Philadelphia lineup I still like them to get the job done at Target Field. GL.