St. Louis Cardinals vs Atlanta Braves Picks and Predictions June 24th 2024

Dominant Braves and Resurgent Cardinals Set for Crucial 3-Game Series Showdown

The Atlanta Braves and St. Louis Cardinals, after emerging from prolonged slumps earlier in the season, have become two of the hottest teams in the National League. With both teams on impressive winning streaks, this three-game series promises to be a thrilling showdown. Let’s dive into their recent performances and what to expect from this crucial matchup.

Braves’ Recent Surge:

The Braves have turned their season around by winning eight of their last ten games following a five-game losing streak. Improved batting and situational hitting have been the cornerstones of their resurgence. Manager Brian Snitker expressed his satisfaction with the team’s performance, particularly after winning two out of three games against the New York Yankees.

“We swung the bat pretty well,” Snitker said. “We did some good situational hitting. So it was good.”

Cardinals’ Comeback:

The Cardinals have also been on a tear, winning eight of their last eleven games. Since starting the season at 15-24, St. Louis has gone 24-13, putting themselves back into the playoff conversation. Manager Oliver Marmol credits their success to a more aggressive offensive approach and solid all-around play.

“I like our approach right now,” Marmol said. “We’re on the attack offensively. If (the pitch) is in the zone, we’re looking to do damage. We’re playing small ball. We’re getting hits when needed. We’re running the bases hard, playing good defense. Overall, this is the style of play we need to continue.”

Pitching Matchups: Lance Lynn’s Challenge:

The Cardinals will start right-hander Lance Lynn, who has struggled recently with a 6.11 ERA in his last four June starts. Despite his recent difficulties, Lynn has a 4-4 record and a 4.34 ERA in eight career starts against the Braves.

Spencer Schwellenbach’s Promise:

The Braves will counter with rookie right-hander Spencer Schwellenbach, who has allowed just three runs on seven hits in his last 12 innings pitched. Schwellenbach’s recent performances have impressed manager Brian Snitker.

“He’s got such a good idea about what he wants to do,” Snitker said. “He executes his pitches and repeats his delivery and all the little things. He fields his position and holds runners really well.”

Injury Updates:

The Cardinals could receive a significant boost with the potential return of catcher Willson Contreras, who has been sidelined since May 8 with a broken forearm. Contreras completed a rehab stint at Triple-A Memphis and may be activated for this series.

However, the Cardinals are monitoring the statuses of third baseman Nolan Arenado (left forearm nerve irritation) and outfielder Michael Siani (bruised ribs), both of whom are day-to-day.

Conclusion:

With both teams riding high on recent successes, this series between the Braves and Cardinals is set to be an exciting and pivotal matchup in the National League. The performances of Lance Lynn and Spencer Schwellenbach, along with potential roster changes, will be crucial to watch. Don’t miss out on what promises to be a thrilling three-game series.

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