Dodgers vs. Cardinals: Betting Preview and Predictions for August 17 Showdown

A Detailed Analysis of the Dodgers vs. Cardinals Matchup

The Los Angeles Dodgers are set to face off against the St. Louis Cardinals in what promises to be an exciting game on Saturday, August 17, 2024, at Busch Stadium in St. Louis, Missouri. With the Dodgers entering the game as the favorites, fans and bettors alike are eager to see how the matchup will unfold. This article provides a comprehensive look at the betting odds, player insights, and expert predictions to help you make an informed decision.

Game Overview

Date and Time: Saturday, August 17, 2024, at 7:15 p.m. ET
Location: Busch Stadium, St. Louis, Missouri
Television Coverage: FOX

The Dodgers are currently favored to win this game with a moneyline of -163, while the Cardinals are the underdogs with a moneyline of +138. The run line is set at 1.5, with the Dodgers needing to win by at least two runs to cover. The total for the game is set at 8.5 runs, which indicates that bookmakers expect a moderately high-scoring affair.

Betting Insights

The Dodgers have been a formidable team this season, with a record of 66-41 when favored. They have been the moneyline favorites in 107 games and have won 61.7% of those matchups. When favored by -163 or more, the Dodgers have a solid record of 40-24, giving them a 62% implied probability of winning this game.

On the other hand, the Cardinals have struggled when playing as underdogs. They have a 28-30 record in such situations, winning only 48.3% of the time. When listed as underdogs with odds of +138 or worse, the Cardinals have managed to secure victories in just two out of nine opportunities, translating to a 42% implied probability of winning.

Recent Performances and Player Insights

Los Angeles Dodgers

The Dodgers have been on a solid run lately, winning six of their last 10 games. They have averaged five runs per game over this stretch, with their pitching staff posting a 3.44 ERA and striking out 9.3 batters per nine innings.

Key Players:

• Shohei Ohtani: Ohtani has been a standout performer for the Dodgers this season, leading the team with a .294 batting average, 37 home runs, and 86 RBIs. His power and consistency at the plate have been crucial to the Dodgers’ success. Ohtani ranks second in home runs and eighth in RBIs among all MLB players.
• Freddie Freeman: Freeman has also been a key contributor, with 29 doubles, two triples, 17 home runs, and 63 walks while batting .290. He is currently 63rd in home runs and 24th in RBIs among all major league hitters. Freeman is entering this game on a hot streak, hitting .318 with a double and a walk over his last five games.
• Mookie Betts: Betts, known for his clutch performances, recently hit a solo home run that helped the Dodgers rally to retake the lead from the Cardinals. He has recorded 16 doubles, three triples, 11 home runs, and 47 walks this season, with a .309 batting average.

St. Louis Cardinals

The Cardinals have been struggling recently, winning only three of their last 10 games. They have averaged three runs per game during this period, with their pitching staff posting a 5.61 ERA and striking out 7.8 batters per nine innings.

Key Players:

• Alec Burleson: Burleson has been a bright spot for the Cardinals, leading the team with 20 home runs and 68 RBIs. He ranks 31st in home runs and 34th in RBIs among all MLB hitters this season.
• Brendan Donovan: Donovan has been consistent at the plate, hitting .267 with 26 doubles, a triple, nine home runs, and 34 walks. His versatility and ability to get on base make him a valuable asset to the Cardinals’ lineup.
• Nolan Arenado: Arenado, known for his defensive prowess and clutch hitting, is batting .270 with 17 doubles, 12 home runs, and 33 walks. His experience and leadership will be crucial for the Cardinals in this game.
• Masyn Winn: Winn leads the Cardinals with a .275 batting average, providing a steady presence in the lineup.

Expert Predictions

Based on recent performances and overall team dynamics, the Dodgers are favored to win this game. However, the Cardinals have the potential to pull off an upset if their key players can step up and deliver in crucial moments.

Score Prediction: Dodgers 5, Cardinals 4
Total Prediction: Over 8.5 runs
Win Probabilities: Dodgers 51%, Cardinals 49%

Key Betting Trends

• The Dodgers have a 5-4 record in their last nine games as moneyline favorites.
• The total has gone over in six of the Dodgers’ last 10 games, indicating a trend towards high-scoring affairs.
• The Cardinals have struggled as underdogs, with a 1-3 record in their last four games in this role.
• The total has gone under in six of the Cardinals’ last 10 games, suggesting that their games tend to be lower-scoring.

Conclusion

The matchup between the Los Angeles Dodgers and the St. Louis Cardinals is shaping up to be an exciting contest with plenty of betting opportunities. The Dodgers’ strong lineup and solid pitching give them the edge, but the Cardinals are not to be underestimated, especially with players like Alec Burleson and Nolan Arenado in their ranks.

For more in-depth analysis and expert betting tips, visit FOX Sports.

As always, betting comes with risks, so it’s essential to do your research and bet responsibly. This game offers several intriguing betting options, from the moneyline and run line to the total runs, making it a must-watch for baseball fans and bettors alike.

Final Thoughts

This game between the Dodgers and Cardinals is more than just a regular-season matchup; it’s a clash of two teams with different trajectories this season. The Dodgers are looking to maintain their dominance, while the Cardinals are fighting to stay competitive. Whether you’re a fan, a bettor, or both, this game is sure to provide plenty of excitement and opportunities.

Make sure to tune in on Saturday, August 17, 2024, at 7:15 p.m. ET, and see how this thrilling matchup unfolds.