Friday, April 18, 2014
Braves-Mets Over 7
It's not too much to ask either of these teams to produce at least three runs, which would ensure at least a push with an over/under of 7.
Braves starter Aaron Harang is well past his prime. The Braves are the sixth team Harang has been with since 2010 after he was with the Reds for eight seasons.
Mets starter Jonathon Niese is a No. 3-to-No. 4 type starter. Decent but hardly dominating. Niese had a 6.91 ERA in three starts versus Atlanta last season. Jason Heyward and Justin Upton are a combined 17-for-39 (.435) against Niese and Freddie Freeman is batting a career .333 against Niese.
Both teams have bullpen issues. Craig Kimbrel hasn't been 100 percent with a shoulder injury and Jose Valverde is on the verge of losing his closer role with the Mets after two straight terrible outings.
The Mets' outfield gets a boost with the return of Chris Young. The weather forecast is for temperatures in the 40s with just a slight wind blowing out.
On the handicapping front, I have two other plays today besides this free total, including my Run Line Game of the Week. They can be viewed here: /pregamepros/pro-bettor/bettor.aspx?id=7746#capper.
As always, no bad luck!