St. Louis Cardinals vs. Pittsburgh Pirates: Game Preview and Prediction April 09, 2025
Date and Time: Wednesday, April 9, 2025, at 12:35 p.m. ET
Location: PNC Park, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Broadcast: SportsNet PT and FDSMW
Betting Odds:
Moneyline: Cardinals -117, Pirates -102
Run Line: Cardinals -1.5 (+146), Pirates +1.5 (-175)
Total Runs: Over/Under set at 8 runs
Team Performance and Recent Form:
St. Louis Cardinals:
The Cardinals enter this matchup with a 5-6 record, aiming to build momentum after snapping a four-game losing streak with a 5-3 victory over the Pirates on Tuesday. In that game, Victor Scott II and Brendan Donovan each contributed two hits and combined for three RBIs, providing the offensive spark needed to secure the win.
Pittsburgh Pirates:
The Pirates hold a 4-8 record and are looking to rebound from their recent loss to the Cardinals. Despite a strong performance from Bryan Reynolds, who hit a solo home run, the Pirates couldn't overcome the Cardinals' offense. Notably, starting pitcher Paul Skenes allowed five runs, marking a career high for the 2024 National League Rookie of the Year.
Probable Starting Pitchers:
St. Louis Cardinals: Erick Fedde (RHP)
2025 Season Stats: Data not available
Pittsburgh Pirates: Mitch Keller (RHP)
2025 Season Stats: Data not available
Specific statistics for both starting pitchers are currently unavailable. However, their performances will be crucial in determining the outcome of this game.
Key Player Matchups:
Cardinals' Offense vs. Mitch Keller:
The Cardinals' lineup features Brendan Donovan, who is batting .395 with two home runs and 10 RBIs this season. Donovan's consistent hitting has been a bright spot for St. Louis, and his ability to get on base will be vital against Keller. Additionally, Nolan Arenado, with a .316 batting average, provides a formidable presence in the middle of the lineup.
Pirates' Offense vs. Erick Fedde:
The Pirates will rely on Oneil Cruz, who leads the team with two home runs, to ignite their offense. Isiah Kiner-Falefa's .316 batting average also adds depth to the lineup. The Pirates will need these players to step up and provide run support to counter the Cardinals' offensive threats.
Betting Trends:
The Cardinals have been favorites four times this season, winning once.
The Pirates have been underdogs in seven games this season, securing two victories.
The total has gone over 8 runs in recent matchups between these teams, suggesting a trend toward higher-scoring games.
Prediction:
Considering the current form of both teams and the pitching matchup, the Cardinals appear to have a slight advantage. Their recent victory over the Pirates and the offensive contributions from key players like Donovan and Arenado position them favorably. However, the Pirates have the potential to capitalize on any pitching inconsistencies from the Cardinals.
Projected Score: Cardinals 6, Pirates 5
Betting Pick: Over 8 runs
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