Phillies vs. Braves Odds & Betting Predictions - August 21, 2024

Follow On X: https://x.com/PicksOffice The Phillies have an opportunistic offense that stands 8th in runs per game at 4.86 and 6th in batting average at .257, even though recently they have been spotty, most against strong pitching. This was evident in their loss yesterday against Atlanta 1-3, where they were held to five hits and a run. Even the top of its order—including stars Kyle Schwarber, Trea Turner, and Bryce Harper—went a combined 0-for-12 with seven strikeouts, showing vulnerability against quality pitching. The Phillies have been pretty strong this year, especially when it comes to pitching, particularly out of the bullpen, sitting at 3.71 ERA. That bullpen could make major contributions tonight if Nola has the grind to put on a good start. He was solid against Atlanta in his career and currently has a 3.45 ERA with 142 strikeouts; through the last few outings, he looks able to shut down the Braves. To the opposite side, even though Atlanta has been much less consistent overall, ranking 16th in runs per game at 4.32 and 17th in batting average at .241. Not having Austin Riley – who will miss the remainder of the regular season with a fractured wrist – makes a huge difference on what this offense is capable of doing. Of course, Marcell Ozuna still leads them in homers and average, with 37 and .309, respectively, , but the lineup around him has remained spotty, as evidenced by just three runs scored yesterday. Fried, the Braves' starter, has not been in excellent form since his injury, but he still remains a rather capable pitcher. His history against Philadelphia is 4.17 ERA, indicating that he can at least establish a quality start, especially at home where the Braves have seen the Under hit frequently—36-15-1 for the last 52 home games. Atlanta's staff, including a bullpen with an ERA of 3.69 (3rd in MLB) and WHIP of 1.23 (9th), can contain the Philadelphia offense. Another fact is that the Braves' defense has been stout, committing only 53 errors this season to stay at 5th in MLB. That further cuts down on the chance of unearned runs.

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