The NL West remains one of the toughest divisions in all of sports, let alone baseball. Four different playoff contenders have been battling all season; the Giants currently find themselves a half-game behind the first place Dodgers. Who’s that fifth team? None other than the Rockies, a potentially historic cellar-dwelling squad. Colorado has just 12 wins this season, the lowest mark through 66 games in MLB history. Will San Francisco take down their awful opponent tonight, or will the Rox put up a fight at home? Below, I’ve laid out my preview, prediction, and best bet for this Wednesday night matchup between the Giants and Rockies.
The Giants enter tonight as heavy favorites (-206) over the Rockies, with the over/under set at 10.5 runs. Let’s break down which side has the edge on DraftKings Sportsbook going into Wednesday’s contest.
Giants at Rockies prediction, preview
Regardless of who was taking the mound, San Francisco would have the edge in this matchup. The Giants are only allowing 3.45 runs to opponents this season, the third-lowest mark in baseball. That’s due in large part to Robbie Ray, tonight’s starter. Over 13 appearances, the former Cy Young winner has recorded a 2.44 ERA, 1.07 WHIP and 87 strikeouts. Ray has allowed more than two runs in only two of his outings this season, offering up elite consistency.
As far as Rockies standards go, tonight’s pitching matchup isn’t too shabby. Kyle Freeland, currently in his ninth year with the franchise, will take the hill on Wednesday. The left-hander’s 5.19 ERA and 1.54 WHIP this season are fairly unimpressive. However, he has had success in this spot. The veteran has surrendered three runs or less in five of his previous six meetings with San Francisco. Unfortunately, Colorado is only averaging 3.17 runs scored per game, the lowest mark in baseball. Even if Freeland delivers a quality start, it’s doubtful he’ll receive any support in this one.
The biggest factor in tonight’s matchup is Coors Field. The sport’s most hitter-friendly venue is also its most unpredictable. Offenses can erupt in the blink of an eye, as the thin Rocky Mountain altitude often turns doubles into dingers. With that being said, the Giants and Rockies have done a solid job at limiting the damage recently. Only three of the last ten meetings between these two have seen more than ten total runs scored.
Giants at Rockies pick, best bet
Best Bet: Giants Rockies under 10.5 runs (-118)
As previously mentioned, this is the ultimate hitter’s haven. However, the Rockies are an awful lineup at any location. The Giants are more adept at pitching, often struggling at the plate as well. Trust Ray and Freeland to keep both offenses in check during tonight’s NL West showdown.
