Pittsburgh Pirates vs. St. Louis Cardinals: Preview, Predictions and Picks for September 16, 2024

Published on:
Sep 16, 2024 6:12 AM
The St. Louis Cardinals look to snap a three-game losing streak as they host the Pittsburgh Pirates at Busch Stadium on Monday, September 16, 2024, at 7:45 PM. The Cardinals hold a narrow lead in the regular season series, 5-4, and aim to capitalize on their home advantage, where they've amassed a 39-35 record. Can the Pirates, with a 33-38 road record, disrupt the Cardinals' momentum in this crucial NL Central matchup?
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Optimal Staff
Pittsburgh Pirates
St. Louis Cardinals

Pirates vs Cardinals starting pitchers

  • Andre Pallante for St. Louis Cardinals
  • Paul Skenes for Pittsburgh Pirates

Pirates vs Cardinals statistics

Stat Pirates Cardinals
Hits 1190 (22nd) 1245 (13th)
Batting Average .236 (23rd) .246 (13th)
Runs Batted In 605 (Tied-19th) 576 (26th)
Runs 627 (21st) 607 (Tied-25th)
Home Runs 144 (26th) 153 (24th)
Walks 450 (17th) 432 (21st)
Stolen Bases 97 (17th) 86 (Tied-21st)
Strikeouts 1377 (6th) 1214 (20th)
Pitches 21876 (17th) 21996 (12th)

St. Louis Cardinals recent games

Game Date Opponent Result Score
9/15/24 @ Toronto Blue Jays L 3-2
9/14/24 @ Toronto Blue Jays L 7-2
9/13/24 @ Toronto Blue Jays L 4-3 F/11
9/12/24 vs Cincinnati Reds W 6-1
9/11/24 vs Cincinnati Reds W 2-1

Pittsburgh Pirates recent games

Game Date Opponent Result Score
9/15/24 vs Kansas City Royals W 4-3
9/14/24 vs Kansas City Royals L 5-1
9/13/24 vs Kansas City Royals L 8-3
9/11/24 vs Miami Marlins W 3-1
9/10/24 vs Miami Marlins W 6-4

Pirates vs Cardinals predictions

As the Pittsburgh Pirates gear up to face the St. Louis Cardinals, all eyes are on a few key players who could tilt the game in their favor. Joey Bart, known for his solid presence behind the plate, is projected to bat .895, which could be crucial in building early momentum. Oneil Cruz, another dynamic figure, is expected to not only contribute over a hit per game but also bring a mix of speed and power that could seriously challenge the Cardinals' pitchers. Both players’ performances will be instrumental in securing a Pirate victory, alongside veteran Bryan Reynolds, who consistently delivers with both bat and glove.

Switching gears to the St. Louis Cardinals, their lineup also boasts notable talent with eyes on Masyn Winn and Paul Goldschmidt to lead the charge. Winn’s agility and speed, combined with a hitting projection near .779, might just weave through the Pirates' defenses, setting the stage for key scoring opportunities. Meanwhile, Goldschmidt, a consistent powerhouse, is anticipated to make significant impacts, especially in clutch situations where his experience could turn the game on its head. Their collective efforts, amplified by solid teamwork, will surely pose a robust challenge.

Given the breakdown, the upcoming game promises to be a close contest, teetering on the edge of minute strategic and player performances. While both teams are almost neck-and-neck, the slightly superior pitching stats of the Pirates might give them the edge. The Cardinals will certainly put up a fierce fight, especially with home-field advantage at Busch Stadium. However, the Pirates, led by a slightly stronger lineup and sharper pitching, might just clinch this win, especially if players like Skenes harness their peak form to stifle the Cardinals’ hitters.

St. Louis Cardinals injuries

  • Tink Hence (RP): Day-To-Day
  • Willson Contreras (C): 10-Day-IL
  • Drew Rom (SP): 60-Day-IL
  • Keynan Middleton (RP): 60-Day-IL

Pittsburgh Pirates injuries

  • Oneil Cruz (SS): Day-To-Day
  • Henry Davis (C): 10-Day-IL
  • Cristofer Melendez (SP): Out
  • Daulton Jefferies (RP): 60-Day-IL
  • Ben Heller (RP): 15-Day-IL

Pirates vs Cardinals game info

Venue Busch Stadium
Location St. Louis, Missouri
First pitch Mon 7:45 PM
Temperature 84°
Chance of Rain 0%

Pittsburgh Pirates vs. St. Louis Cardinals Betting Odds

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