The Atlanta Braves are predicted to defeat the Arizona Diamondbacks in their Sunday afternoon game. The prediction comes from handicapper "Stitches" writing for the New York Post.
The Braves will start pitcher Bryce Elder, who has struggled in recent outings. The New York Mets scored seven runs on 10 hits against Elder in his last start, a stark contrast to his previous 24 innings where he allowed only five runs. Prior to the Mets game, Elder's ERA had increased.
Arizona will counter with Michael Soroka, who recently returned from the injured list with a left glute strain. Soroka pitched 4 1/3 scoreless innings against the Colorado Rockies in his return. However, his performance on the road prior to his injury saw his ERA rise from 2.92 to 4.54.
The Diamondbacks have a road record of 29-31, while the Braves hold a strong 41-22 record at home. The handicapper expressed doubt about Soroka's readiness due to his recent injury, leading to the bet on Elder and the Braves.
In other recent MLB games mentioned, the Phillies defeated the Twins 9-1, with Jesus Luzardo pitching 6 2/3 innings and Bryson Stott hitting a three-run homer. The Red Sox also blanked the Pirates 4-0, aided by a seven-inning shutout from Sonny Gray, who earned his 15th win.