Pirates vs. Tigers Odds
| Pirates Odds | +120 |
| Tigers Odds | -140 |
| Over/Under | 8 (-105 / -115) |
| Time | 4:40 p.m. ET |
| TV | MLB.TV |
| Odds via DraftKings. Get up-to-the-minute MLB odds here. | |
Game 2 of the Pittsburgh Pirates and Detroit Tigers' doubleheader will be a slightly more interesting match-up than Game 1. That's because Alex Faedo, the Tigers' 21st-ranked prospect, per Baseball America, makes his Major League debut.
As is the case in all doubleheaders, lineups will be determined by Game 1 usage, which may provide an additional edge depending on who plays.
Jose Quintana takes the mound for the Pirates in Game 1, and surprisingly, he has never been on the Tigers. How about that?
How Will Pirates Fare Against a Rookie?
This could actually be an advantageous match-up for the Pirates in that they are a bottom-tier MLB offense taking on a pitcher making his MLB debut.
Although Faedo is a rookie, he was a 2017 first-round pick and has battled injuries throughout his professional career. The Pirates are still an MLB offense, and this could be a good opportunity for them to jump on the rookie.
Quintana has been a fairly reliable pitcher for the Pirates so far in 2022. He brings a 3.32 ERA and 3.92 FIP into Wednesday evening's match-up, but he hasn't really been challenged by any particular offense so far this season.
In fact, the Tigers on the road will be the best offense he has faced so far this season, and that could make Quintana a regression candidate.
What to Expect From Alex Faedo
The Tigers have a serious platoon advantage heading into this game against left-handers, and that's something they did well in 2021 too.
Regardless of Michael Pineda's performance and the bullpen usage in Game 1, Faedo will have a very short leash. Faedo's injury history, plus the Tigers' strong bullpen options, will definitely ensure that if Faedo runs into any trouble, he will not be forced into many high-stress innings.
Therefore, this game is really dependent on what type of production the Tigers can get out of their rookie right-hander. Faedo has thrown just 15 MiLB innings so far this season and only reached the five-inning threshold in his last start.
Additionally, Faedo is not a high-end phenom who forced his way into the majors. He's 26 with an average fastball and relies mostly on getting ahead of hitters with his fastball and then utilizing his secondary pitches.
Pirates-Tigers Pick
Considering the pitching match-up and the Tigers' offense, it's really hard to get a read on this game. The weather is also looking quite favorable, which may help the offenses seize control of this game.
Quintana seems due for regression, and with the Tigers' offense returning home where they've hit well, this could be a good setup for an over.
Additionally, the uncertainty of a rookie starter and possible second-line bullpen arms may make Detroit's pitching situation a little more volatile than usual.
The over looks like the safest play for this Game 2 match-up. It sits at 7.5 and could be taken either up to 8 runs or the -120 threshold.
Pick: Over 7.5 (Play to 8 or 7 at -120)
