Kansas City Royals vs. Pittsburgh Pirates: Preview, Predictions and Picks for September 13, 2024

Published on:
Sep 13, 2024 6:10 AM
The Kansas City Royals, currently sitting at 80-67 and second in the AL Central, travel to PNC Park to face the Pittsburgh Pirates, who hold a 70-76 record and fifth place in the NL Central. The Pirates look to capitalize on their home advantage, where they've managed a 37-38 record, while the Royals aim to improve their 35-37 road record. The first game of this 3-game series is set to kick off on Friday, September 13, 2024, at 6:40 PM.
Written by
Optimal Staff
Kansas City Royals
Pittsburgh Pirates

Royals vs Pirates starting pitchers

  • Luis Ortiz for Pittsburgh Pirates

Royals vs Pirates statistics

Stat Royals Pirates
Hits 1249 (8th) 1165 (22nd)
Batting Average .253 (7th) .235 (23rd)
Runs Batted In 673 (6th) 597 (18th)
Runs 693 (9th) 619 (20th)
Home Runs 162 (Tied-16th) 144 (26th)
Walks 379 (28th) 436 (17th)
Stolen Bases 120 (10th) 97 (Tied-16th)
Strikeouts 1022 (29th) 1340 (7th)
Pitches 20581 (26th) 21401 (17th)

Pittsburgh Pirates recent games

Game Date Opponent Result Score
9/11/24 vs Miami Marlins W 3-1
9/10/24 vs Miami Marlins W 6-4
9/9/24 vs Miami Marlins W 3-2
9/8/24 vs Washington Nationals W 7-3
9/7/24 vs Washington Nationals L 8-6

Kansas City Royals recent games

Game Date Opponent Result Score
9/11/24 @ New York Yankees L 4-3 F/11
9/10/24 @ New York Yankees W 5-0
9/9/24 @ New York Yankees L 10-4
9/8/24 vs Minnesota Twins W 2-0
9/7/24 vs Minnesota Twins W 4-2

Royals vs Pirates predictions

As the Kansas City Royals gear up to face the Pittsburgh Pirates, all eyes are on some key players who could heavily influence the game's outcome. Bobby Witt Jr. continues to dazzle with his stellar performance, boasting a batting average that's the envy of many and the power to change the game with his swings. Salvador Perez, with a proven track record of 101 RBIs, is expected to be a crucial player in driving runs home and handling the defensive duties behind the plate with veteran savvy. On the pitching side, although he's not listed as a probable starter, Alec Marsh’s statistics suggest that if he gets a nod to pitch in relief, his arm could provide solid innings.

Switching to the Pittsburgh Pirates, there’s a lot of anticipation around Bryan Reynolds, who has put up impressive numbers across the board. His knack for making solid contact and delivering when it counts makes him a player to watch. Meanwhile, Oneil Cruz, known for his raw power and speed, is another key figure who might significantly impact the game's dynamics. If Luis Ortiz, the starting pitcher, unleashes his best stuff, evidenced by a strong ERA and WHIP, the Pirates could see a stellar performance on the mound which can be a game-changer.

Given the stats and standout potentials on both sides, making a game prediction feels like looking into a crystal ball filled with exciting possibilities. However, the Pirates seem to have a slight edge with home-field advantage and a strong bullpen that could hold the Royals' hitters in check. It looks poised to be a close series opener, but I'm leaning towards a Pirates win if they capitalize on their strategic strengths and control the pace from the early innings. What do you think? Could the Royals disrupt these predictions and pull off a surprise?

Pittsburgh Pirates injuries

  • Ben Heller (RP): 15-Day-IL
  • Daulton Jefferies (RP): 60-Day-IL
  • Henry Davis (C): 10-Day-IL
  • Cristofer Melendez (SP): Out
  • Ke'Bryan Hayes (3B): 10-Day-IL

Kansas City Royals injuries

  • Hunter Harvey (RP): 15-Day-IL
  • Will Smith (RP): 15-Day-IL
  • Michael Lorenzen (SP): 15-Day-IL
  • Josh Taylor (RP): 60-Day-IL
  • Vinnie Pasquantino (1B): 10-Day-IL

Royals vs Pirates game info

Venue PNC Park
Location Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
First pitch Fri 6:40 PM
Temperature 84°
Chance of Rain 0%

Kansas City Royals vs. Pittsburgh Pirates Betting Odds

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