Atlanta Braves Looks to Keep the White Sox in With Strider on the Hill
The Atlanta Braves (3-2) head into a crucial rubber match against the Chicago White Sox (1-4) on Wednesday, April 3rd at Guarantee Rate Field with the series tied 1-1. After a dominant 9-0 victory in the opener, the Braves were surprised by a gritty 3-2 defeat in game two. This sets the stage for an intriguing finale with both teams needing a win for momentum.
The weather on the South Side of Chicago is not going to be great today. Forecasters are calling for rain and snow with a high near 39. With a west southwest wind blowing at 10 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph. Chance of precipitation is 90%. Little or no snow accumulation expected.
Braves Look to Bounce Back with Ace on the Mound
The Braves will be heavily favored in this matchup thanks to the presence of their ace, Spencer Strider, on the mound. Strider was electric last season, emerging as a top pitcher in the league. He tossed six impressive innings in his opening start this year, allowing just one run and striking out seven.
Atlanta’s offense, which leads the majors in batting average (.293) to start the season, is also a major advantage. They boast a deep lineup with reigning MVP Ronald Acuna Jr., Matt Olsen, Austin Riley, and Michael Harris II all expected to have solid seasons. Micheal Harris II has started the season on fire, along with Olsen.
The loss in game two might be a minor blip as the Braves have a history of bouncing back after defeats, especially with Strider on the hill.
White Sox Hope to Extend Unexpected Success
The White Sox, on the other hand, enter the game with a surprising win under their belt. After a rough start to the season, they managed to shut down the Braves’ bats in game two, capitalizing on key hits and strong pitching from Garrett Crochet. Crochet went 7 strong innings with his only misstep being a solo blast from the Braves Marcel Ozuna.
Their young hitters, particularly Luis Robert with his two home runs, will be looking to continue their spark against Strider.
However, the White Sox face an uphill battle. Their starting pitcher for Wednesday is Dominic Leone, and their overall offense has struggled mightily, batting a collective .188. The pitching staff, despite flashes of brilliance, has a 4.20 ERA, which could be exposed by the potent Braves lineup.
Key Factors to Watch
- Strider’s Domination: Can Strider replicate his opening day performance and shut down the White Sox offense?
- White Sox Pitching: Dominic Leone will make his first start of the year. Can he limit the Braves’ explosive offense? This could be a bullpen game.
- Braves’ Response to Loss: Will the Braves bounce back after a defeat or let the momentum swing to the White Sox?
Prediction
With Strider on the mound and a potent offense at their disposal, the Braves hold a clear advantage. However, baseball is full of surprises, and the White Sox have shown their ability to grind out wins with a young and talented roster. Still, the Braves’ overall talent and Strider‘s presence make them the favorites to take the rubber match and the series.
The Braves will be looking to get out of town and start their home-stand and get out of all this crazy cold weather. Maybe the weather cooperates and gets the game in.
This early in the season a win for the White Sox could give the young team some confidence, but we don’t see that happening this afternoon if weather allows the game to happen. I would wager on the Braves Under in this one. As this cold and wet/snowy weather with gusty winds has under written all over it.
Line: Atlanta Braves -357; White Sox +310
Runline: Braves -193; White Sox +168
Total: Over 8 (-120); Under 8 (+100)
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