9:40PM ET PHI Phillies (-110) vs ARI Diamondbacks (-110) Kolby Allard vs Jordan Montgomery
The Philadelphia Phillies and Arizona Diamondbacks face off in what promises to be an exciting series between two teams having impressive seasons. The Phillies aim to continue their winning streak after taking 2/3 from the Dodgers in LA. The Diamondbacks, with a 63-52 record and eight wins in their last 10 games, are closing in on the top spot in the National League West Division. For tonight's game, the Phillies will rely on Kolby Allard as their starting pitcher, while the Diamondbacks will turn to Jordan Montgomery. Let's see where the value is!
On the Mound
Kolby Allard gets the start for the Phillies. Although Allard has had limited action this season, allowing four runs in eight innings pitched, his minor league performance has been shaky. Despite this, the Phillies are turning to him due to injuries in their rotation. Allard will get the opportunity to step up and deliver a solid performance against a potent Diamondbacks lineup.
Jordan Montgomery will start for the Diamondbacks. Montgomery has struggled this season, allowing 57 runs in 77.2 innings pitched. His underlying metrics are concerning, with a .295 expected opponent batting average, a 14.6% strikeout rate, and a 5.33 expected ERA. Opponents have found success against Montgomery, making strong contact and driving in runs with ease.
At the Plate
The Phillies' lineup has been one of the best in baseball, scoring 4.86 runs per game. Bryce Harper is slashing .277/.370/.541 with 25 home runs, and Kyle Schwarber has caught fire, with 24 homers of his own and comes off a game where he hit 3 of them. The depth of the lineup is undeniable and they are incredibly good against left-handed pitching, which will work in their favor tonight. They are familiar with Jordan Montgomery and should be able to find success against him in a down year.
Arizona also has an excellent offense but the lack of familiarity with Allard could be something that Philadelphia takes advantage of. I also think the Snakes could be a bit gassed, they are on a great winning streak but come off of a double-header in which they swept the Guardians. Now having to travel back home they are essentially playing 3 games in rapid succession, tough scheduling and could be a flat spot for the home team.
Best Bet
The Phillies' strong lineup, coupled with their success against lefties and Montgomery's struggles, gives them the edge in this matchup. Backing the Phillies on the money line leverages these insights and positions bettors with an edge over this pickem line.