Minnesota Twins vs. Cleveland Guardians 9/4/23 Game Preview
Minnesota Twins (71-66) vs. Cleveland Guardians (66-71)
Minnesota Twins vs. Cleveland Guardians 9/4/23 – As MLB season comes closer to an end, each game gains more significance for teams still hovering just under.500 mark – including Minnesota Twins (71-66) and Cleveland Guardians (66-71) who face each other on September 13th at Progressive Field for a pivotal late-season contest. We will explore performance metrics, starting pitchers, betting trends and odds to provide an informed pick in this contest.
The Minnesota Twins currently hold a 71-66 record, placing them in an acceptable but not comfortable spot in their playoff chase. Their team stats reveal a robust batting average of.240 with an impressive 192 homers and 622 runs scored; plus their pitching staff boasts an admirable 3.95 ERA and 1.21 WHIP; however despite these positive figures the Twins have struggled against Cleveland and on the road, as we will explore in our Betting Trends Analysis section.
On the other hand, Cleveland Guardians are looking to get back into.500 with a 66-71 record and their batting average being slightly better at.248, but only managing to hit 104 home runs which significantly less than what Twins managed during this year. Their pitching staff, however, has posted an improved ERA at 3.84 while still boasting an elevated WHIP (Whiting Hixon Index of 1.28). Recent form indicates an upward trend at home which makes them formidable opponents to face off against. For more insights, check out free MLB picks and predictions.
Twins vs. Guardians Game Info
Pablo Lopez (9-7, 3.72 ERA) vs. Lucas Giolito (7-11, 4.45 ERA)
Pablo Lopez will start this pivotal match-up for the Minnesota Twins and has been an anchor of consistency all season, posting an outstanding 9-7 Win/Loss record and posting an outstanding 3.72 ERA that proves effective at restricting runs. Twins fans should find great comfort in Lopez’s 1.16 WHIP, an indication that he has been adept at keeping runners off basepaths. Over 164.2 innings this year he has faced 619 batters while only giving up 148 hits. His strikeout-to-walk ratio stands out, having struck out 196 batters while only issuing 43 free passes, showing his ability to control both his pitch arsenal and strike zone effectively. Nonetheless, 21 home runs have been allowed this season – something which may cause concern given Cleveland’s recent play.
Lucas Giolito will take the mound for the Cleveland Guardians. While his 7-11 Win/Loss record may seem inconsequential, one should bear in mind the limited run support he’s seen this season. Giolito boasts a higher earned run average (4.45), suggesting that he’s been more susceptible to giving up runs compared to Lopez; however, Giolito still managed to strike out an impressive 165 batters over 153.2 innings pitched. His 1.28 WHIP certainly raises some red flags, suggesting he’s more prone to allowing baserunners via hits and walks alike. With 57 walks allowed and 30 home runs already this season – numbers which could prove fatal against Minnesota if their offense comes alive! But Giolito has had moments of brilliance against Minnesota before. Regardless, this game could prove decisive.
MLB Odds/Point Spread: Cleveland Guardians +119, Total Odds: 8
Betting odds for the contest have the Minnesota Twins as slight favorites, with a Spread of +1.5 (+125), Moneyline of -129 and an 8 over total (-112). On the other side are Cleveland Guardians with an opposite spread (+1.5 (-145), Moneyline of +119 and Total 8 under total of (-108).
Minnesota Twins Betting Trends
The Twins have seen the total go OVER in 9 of their last 12 games, though their record against Cleveland and on the road is cause for alarm. They are 1-5 SU in their last 5 matches against them while 2-8 against them on their travels in those 10 road contests; moreover, their 3-9 record against teams from American League Central division is particularly poor.
Cleveland Guardians Betting Trends
Cleveland has been on a roll lately, going 4-1 SU in their last 5 games against Minnesota Twins and posting an 8-2 mark at home (8-2 in 10 home games and 12 of 15 total UNDER games played in total against them).
Minnesota Twins vs. Cleveland Guardians 9/4/23 Betting Picks
At first glance, the Cleveland Guardians appear to be in an advantageous position for this matchup when considering starting pitchers, team stats and recent betting trends. Lopez may have had an outstanding season so far for Minnesota; however, their poor road record makes them less appealing despite their offensive prowess.
Based on trends and stats, our pick is for the Cleveland Guardians to win this matchup. Considering both teams’ recent pitching and batting performances, we anticipate an under-8 run total. For more expert insights, check out free sports picks and predictions.
