Washington Nationals vs St. Louis Cardinals Picks and Predictions July 8th 2024

With offense rolling, Cards close series with Nationals

The St. Louis Cardinals, known for their robust offensive lineup, are set to close out a four-game series against the Washington Nationals on Monday afternoon. The series has been a mixed bag, with the Cardinals showing a resurgence in their offensive game. The Cardinals’ recent 8-3 victory has set the stage for an exciting finale.

The Cardinals’ Offensive Surge

The Cardinals’ offense has been firing on all cylinders lately. In their recent games, they’ve managed to score a total of 13 runs while splitting the first two games of the series. This offensive output has been driven by standout performances from key players, including Willson Contreras and Nolan Arenado.

Game Recap: Sunday’s Victory

In Sunday’s game, the Cardinals secured an 8-3 victory over the Nationals. Willson Contreras went 2-for-5, including a home run and three RBIs. Nolan Arenado and Nolan Gorman also contributed significantly, each adding two hits and two RBIs. This game showcased the depth and strength of the Cardinals’ lineup.

Willson Contreras’ Impact

Willson Contreras has been a critical player for the Cardinals. After being activated from the 10-day injured list due to a left forearm fracture, Contreras has shown remarkable form. His recent performances include a six-game hitting streak, during which he has gone 8-for-25 (.320) with three homers and eight RBIs.

Nolan Arenado and Nolan Gorman

Both Nolan Arenado and Nolan Gorman have been pivotal in the Cardinals’ recent games. Arenado, known for his consistency, and Gorman, with his multi-hit efforts, have provided the much-needed firepower. Their contributions have been instrumental in the Cardinals’ offensive success.

Preview of Monday’s Game

As the Cardinals prepare for the final game of the series, the spotlight will be on the starting pitchers. Nationals’ left-hander Mitchell Parker will face the Cardinals for the first time, while right-hander Miles Mikolas will take the mound for St. Louis. The game promises to be a thrilling contest between the two teams.

Mitchell Parker’s Challenge

Mitchell Parker, with a 5-4 record and a 3.61 ERA, is set to make his 16th major league start. In his last outing against the New York Mets, he allowed five runs on five hits over six innings but managed to escape with a no-decision. Monday’s game will be his first career appearance against the Cardinals, presenting a new challenge for the rookie.

Miles Mikolas on the Mound

Miles Mikolas, who holds a 6-7 record with a 5.19 ERA, will be pitching for the Cardinals. In his recent game against the Pittsburgh Pirates, Mikolas gave up two runs on five hits over six innings, earning a no-decision. He has a history of solid performances against the Nationals, with a 3-3 record and a 3.77 ERA in eight career appearances.

Cardinals’ Manager’s Insights

St. Louis manager Oliver Marmol praised Mikolas’ recent performance, emphasizing his ability to fill up the zone and keep the game competitive. Marmol’s strategic insights and managerial decisions will be crucial as the Cardinals look to clinch the series.

Run Support for Mikolas

To support Mikolas, the Cardinals will rely on their offensive stars. Players like Contreras, Arenado, and Gorman will be key in providing the necessary run support. Historically, strong offensive backing has been a significant factor in Mikolas’ successful outings.

Contreras’ Comeback Story

Willson Contreras’ return from injury has been a major boost for the Cardinals. His left forearm fracture had sidelined him for nearly two months, but his recent hitting streak indicates that he is back in top form. Contreras’ ability to perform under pressure will be vital for the Cardinals’ success.

Gorman’s Hot Streak

Nolan Gorman has been in exceptional form, with four multi-hit games in his past six outings. His contributions have added depth to the Cardinals’ lineup, making them a formidable opponent for any team. Gorman’s consistency will be crucial in the upcoming games.

Nationals’ Bullpen Woes

The Nationals’ bullpen has been under significant strain, having to cover 4 2/3 innings on Sunday after starter DJ Herz lasted just 4 1/3 innings. This overworked bullpen could be a vulnerability that the Cardinals can exploit in the series finale.

Dave Martinez’s Strategy

Nationals manager Dave Martinez has acknowledged the challenges faced by his bullpen. With the team playing 17 games in 17 days, Martinez emphasized the need for length from the starters to give the bullpen a break. His strategic decisions will be key in managing the team’s fatigue and performance.

Washington’s Tough Schedule

The Nationals are in the midst of a grueling schedule, playing 17 consecutive games. This demanding stretch can impact player performance and team dynamics. The Cardinals can take advantage of this fatigue to secure a series win.

All-Star Game Selections

The rosters for the July 16 All-Star Game in Arlington, Texas, were announced, with both teams having representatives. Shortstop CJ Abrams will represent the Nationals, while closer Ryan Helsley will represent the Cardinals. Their selections highlight their outstanding performances this season.

CJ Abrams’ All-Star Season

CJ Abrams has had an impressive season, hitting .282 with 14 homers and 46 RBIs. His selection to the All-Star Game is a testament to his contributions to the Nationals and his potential as a rising star in the league.

Ryan Helsley’s Achievements

Ryan Helsley, with a major-league-best 31 saves, has been a standout performer for the Cardinals. His reliability as a closer has been crucial in securing victories for the team. Helsley’s performance will be pivotal in the upcoming games as well.

Conclusion

As the St. Louis Cardinals and the Washington Nationals prepare for the series finale, both teams have showcased their strengths and faced their challenges. The Cardinals’ offensive surge, driven by key players like Willson Contreras and Nolan Arenado, has set the stage for a thrilling conclusion. With strong pitching matchups and strategic plays, the final game promises to be an exciting contest. Fans can look forward to a competitive game as both teams aim to finish the series on a high note.

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