Free Daily Lock Pick: NFL: Saints vs Panthers- September 18th – Max Confidence Comp
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The Los Angeles Dodgers play host to the Detroit Tigers on Tuesday night in a September showdown from Dodger Stadium. These two come into this one in very different positions when it comes to the standings, as the Dodgers have already clinched the division, on the back of a strong run of play lately, while the Tigers need a miraculous final push to catch the Twins, who sit just over eight games ahead of them. When these two squared of last season, which was the first meeting since 2017, the Dodgers took two of three at home, as they look make it a sweep in this week's rendition of the series.
It has been a number of years since Detroit was even in the conversation of the playoffs come September, so regardless of what happens over the last few weeks, it's clear that this team has taken a step forward in 2023. The Tigers sit just under ten games behind the Twins in the AL Central and while it would take a wild finish in the division over the last few weeks to sneak into the playoffs, Detroit will want to continue to put their best foot forward. A 7-3 record over their last ten games at least has them playing strong baseball and catching a Los Angeles team who is coasting towards the playoffs, might be exactly what the doctor ordered. The 27-48 road record is a massive concern though, as it represents one of worst road marks for teams still in playoff consideration. After losing two of three in Los Angeles last season, it's clear that this could be a tough spot for this group.
< p>According to MLB.com, the Tigers remain undecided on who they'll be giving the ball to in this one. A young cast of pitchers has left the staff wondering where to turn over the final few weeks, especially with the injuries they've been navigating as well. Whoever gets the ball is likely to have their hands full against one of baseball's best and most potent offenses, though a team ERA of 4.34 is an impressive mark. The bullpen could see extended innings in this one too and with a 4.42 ERA themselves, will hope inconsistency doesn't haunt them in this one.
The offense is where the Tigers will struggle the most on the road in this one. They only average 4.1 runs per game, which is one of the worst marks in baseball as a whole, let alone of teams that haven't been eliminated yet. Being without Riley Greene (elbow) has hurt of late, though the continued absence of Austin Meadows (personal) has proven to be tough to patch over. Spencer Torkles on (28 home runs, 83 RBI) has been a catalyst in the lineup but without much help, it hasn't been a surprise to see this group struggle. Javier Baez remains the x-factor, though his .219 average on the season gives reason for concern.
Free Daily Lock Pick: NFL: Saints vs Panthers- September 18th – Max Confidence Comp Click to see the pick now