August 25, 2014

Games of the Day

The Rays may get their last chance to launch a comeback in the AL East as they open a four game series in Baltimore against the first place Orioles. A sweep would put them six games out with a little over a month to play. That would move an AL East championship from improbable to unlikely. Jake Odorizzi takes on Chris Tillman in the opener. Odorizzi’s ERA doesn’t really go along with his high K rate, as both his FIP and xFIP are below his actual ERA. Tillman allows a good number of home runs, but only six of his 17 game at home this season.

The Cardinals visit the Pirates as both teams battle for the NL Central championship and NL Wild Card slots. John Lackey faces Francisco Liriano in the opener of their three-game set. In 13 games so far this season, the Cardinals won seven, despite Pittsburgh outscoring them 51-44.

Michael Pineda takes on James Sheilds as the Yankees and Royals chase playoff slots in Kansas City. Pineda showed great control since his return from the disabled list, walking one batter and striking out seven in 11 innings. Shields owns a 2.04 ERA in his last nine starts. He allowed just four home runs in that time after allowing 15 in his first 8 starts.

Enjoy!

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