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After the All-Star break, the Philadelphia Phillies and the Pittsburgh Pirates get back to business on Friday as they open a three-game series at PNC Park. The Phils set off on their break after dominating the first half of the season, holding the best record in the MLB.
Hard-throwing Aaron Nola will get on the mound in Game 1. Nola had a spectacular first half, with an 11-4 record and a 3.38 ERA. The Phils have won most of the games with Nola as starter. Some early strikeouts are expected, and Nola could last for six or seven innings.
The Pirates, meanwhile, have had great success with Paul Skenes since his major league debut, but they went 48-48 in the first half of the season. The offense hasn't been great, especially against teams with a winning record, making a playoff berth rather doubtful for the Pirates.
Left-handed pitcher Martin Perez will go up against the Phils in Game 1. Perez has a terrible 1-5 record with a poor 5.15 ERA. The Pirates will need their bullpen or the offense to help Perez against their hard-hitting opponents.
Phillies vs. Pirates Baseball Betting Odds
Where to watch the Phillies vs. Pirates?
MLB fans can watch the game live on SportsNet-PIT or NBCSP. Online streamers can tune into Fubo TV at the scheduled time of 6:40 p.m. EDT.
Phillies vs. Pirates Prediction
Perez is up against the team that ranks fourth in runs scored. The Phils scored 477 runs in the first half of the season, along with 118 home runs. As for the Pirates, they have 402 runs and 99 home runs and are ranked No. 21.
The Phils hold the second-best record in the MLB, with a 3.41 ERA, while the Pirates are No. 13 with a 3.86 ERA. Nola is a talented pitcher who has been dominant this season.
The Phils have top hitters like Bryce Harper, Alec Bohm, Kyle Schwarber and others. With support from the plate, they should secure an easy victory. Nola is expected to last for a minimum of six or seven innings.
Prediction: Philadelphia Phillies -1.5 (-145)
