Arizona Diamondbacks (14-20) vs. Cincinnati Reds (16-17)
As the Arizona Diamondbacks prepare to face the Cincinnati Reds at Great American Ball Park, both teams are looking to improve their slightly struggling records in the MLB. Set for a showdown on Wednesday, May 8, 2024, at 6:40 PM ET, this matchup will be broadcast on FS1, offering a great opportunity for MLB free betting picks. The Diamondbacks, at 14-20, and the Reds, slightly better at 16-17, are both trying to climb back to a .500 record and beyond as the season progresses.
Diamondbacks have had a rough one lately, with victory in only one game out of five over the period. The team demonstrated some of the difficulties by their overall numbers. The batting average was .245, and the slugging percentage was only .381. Even hitting 30 home runs and taking 282 hits, the team pitching staff was kind of poor, having the ERA 4.43 and the WHIP 1.31. In addition to their failure to produce a .322 on-base percentage (OBP), the team’s opponents averaging .253 batting, indicate that there are holes in their offensive and defensive style of play that need to be plugged.
While the Cincinnati Reds are also stumbling in their current 1-4 run, their pitching component has a clear advantage thanks to a 3.79 ERA and a low 1.25 WHIP. Although they have not been as productive as the team’s batting average of .213 and an on-base percentage of .292. Their tally of 32 home runs gives them the slightest lead over the Diamondbacks in power, yet in the number of hits and runs scored the trail behind. The Reds’ better pitching could give them an advantage in this moment game, if accompanied by their average statistics in home games.
Arizona Diamondbacks vs. Cincinnati Reds Game Info
| When: | Wednesday, May 8, 2024 at 6:40 PM ET |
| Where: | Great American Ball Park |
| TV: | FS1 |
| Stream: | MLB.TV |
Jordan Montgomery (1-2, 5.63 ERA) vs. Graham Ashcraft (3-1, 3.63 ERA)
The statistics of Jordan Montgomery of the Diamondbacks are not really good this year, which can be told from his 5.63 ERA and 1.31 WHIP in 16 innings he pitched. However, since he batted 17 hits and 8 strikeouts, his record has been tarnished with 4 walks and 3 home-runs a piece. While Montgomery’s pitching strengths may prove enough against the Reds, especially with a lineup that can capitalize on any pitching deficiencies, they may struggle, especially.
At the other end of the spectrum, Graham Ashcraft has been one hell of a catch for the Reds. Contrasting a 3.63 ERA and 1.27 WHIP in 34.2 innings pitched, he has been a force on the mound with his amazing command in the field and in striking out batters (30 Ks already). His power let down with 5 home runs yet still overall his consistency denotes a solid starter in this battle.
MLB Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Total Odds: TBD
The betting odds are yet to be determined, but considering the recent performance and the starting pitchers, the odds might slightly favor the Reds, particularly with Ashcraft’s steadier hand. Bettors should watch for updates on these odds to make informed decisions.
Arizona Diamondbacks Betting Trends
The Diamondbacks have been less successful, showing weakness mainly in their recent games, including 8-9 and on the road. The counts have gone OVER in 2 of their last 5 games, showing that sometimes the Diamondbacks and their rivals faced a bunch of shots toward the goal ends.
Cincinnati Reds Betting Trends
The Reds have actually done a little better in their away games against the spread (9-6) with no major fluctuations at home. Totals have gone OVER in 9 of the last 18 of their home games; both teams can score a lot of goals so it could be worth taking the over on the score line although it is unpredictable.
Arizona Diamondbacks vs. Cincinnati Reds 5/8/24 Betting Picks
Considering both teams’ recent form and the pitching matchup, this game could lean towards the Reds, especially with Ashcraft on the mound. His ability to manage games and keep his team in contention even when the offense sputters could be key.
As for the betting strategy, considering the overall volatility of both teams, a cautious approach might be wise. Look for live betting opportunities once the game’s dynamics are clearer. Bettors using the best bookie software will find value in adjusting their bets mid-game based on the initial innings’ flow.
