Pirates vs. Cardinals odds, prediction, MLB picks today

Pittsburgh Pirates have lost nine games in a row and are 24-37. Their -103 run differential is the worst in the Major Leagues. Roansy Contreras has played only 28 innings this season but has a 2.67 ERA, 1.18 WHIP, 3.30 xFIP and is striking out 10.6 batters per 9 innings.

Pirates are playing against the Cardinals.

Jack Flaherty will make his season debut for the Cardinals after missing the first two months of the season with a shoulder injury. He has a 3.79 ERA and 3 xFIP, which are decent numbers but not what everyone was expecting out of him. The Pirates don't inspire much confidence, but this starting pitching matchup should give them the opportunity to pull the upset. The bet is to take the First 5 Inning moneyline and hope that Contreras can get the better of Flaherd.

Pirates are F5 ML (+145) at BetMGM Sportsbook.