The Atlanta Braves (64-58; 32-32 away) are set to face the Los Angeles Angels (53-69; 27-38 home) for the final time this season. The series finale will take place at 4:07 p.m. EST in Angel Stadium. After a close 3-2 win for Los Angeles on Friday, fans are left wondering whether the Braves can secure a victory as they head home.
For those interested in maximizing their chances in baseball betting, MLB Free Picks offer valuable insights.
Atlanta Fighting for a Wild-Card Spot
The month of August has been a challenging one for the Braves. With nine losses in their last 13 games, they have seen their grip on the final NL wild-card position dwindle to just one game. The team’s pitching has been a constant source of strength, and veteran right-hander Charlie Morton aims to turn things around on Sunday. However, he carries a troubling 5.79 ERA since the All-Star break and a 4.91 ERA in away games. In his last 35.0 innings pitched, Morton has given up 27 runs (22 earned), and his current 4.70 FIP signals potential struggles, marking the worst performance in a season for him since 2010. If Morton can find his rhythm, the Braves will rely on a bullpen that ranks among the top five in ERA, FIP, and WAR. Can this team regain momentum?
The Braves are unlikely to capture the NL East title again this year, primarily due to an underperforming offense. The absence of 2023 NL MVP Ronald Acuña Jr. and Ozzie Albies has significantly impacted their performance. Currently ranked 17th in runs per game (4.29), Atlanta is expected to deliver more. Acuña’s injury helps explain their second-fewest stolen bases in the MLB this season. The team also struggles with a walk rate that sits at 19th and a strikeout rate of 25th. Despite ranking 17th in batting average, 23rd in on-base percentage, and 12th in slugging, the Braves’ fourth-most home runs often come without runners on base. Sunday’s game will test whether they can generate more scoring opportunities.
Los Angeles in Search of Future Prospects
The Angels’ season has been marked by disappointment, especially following Mike Trout’s season-ending injury. With little to play for, the team is focused on identifying talent for the future. Their current offensive struggles are evident, as they rank 26th in runs per game (4.01). The batting lineup has also faced challenges, ranking 22nd in batting average, 21st in on-base percentage, 24th in slugging, and 24th in home runs. Their 102 stolen bases (9th) are offset by the worst efficiency (71%) in the league. Fans will be watching closely to see how this struggling Angels team wraps up the series.
In addition to hitting woes, Los Angeles has encountered pitching difficulties. A wave of injuries and the standings have led to opportunities for new pitchers. Rookie Jack Kochanowicz is set to make his fourth career start on Sunday. So far, he has pitched 14.2 innings, allowing 20 hits, three home runs, and 14 runs (13 earned). His last outing marked a turning point, as he did not concede five runs for the first time, albeit in a road game. The Angels’ bullpen, currently ranked 26th in WAR and 27th in FIP, will be tasked with supporting the rookie. Can they secure another win?
Best Bets for Atlanta Braves vs. Los Angeles Angels
Charlie Morton, now 40 years old, has been a picture of inconsistency in 2024. His last six starts have alternated between allowing four or more runs and giving up two or fewer. In his most recent outing, he allowed just two runs on the road, where he has struggled all season (4.91 ERA). Another challenging outing is likely on the horizon for Morton this Sunday.
An early offensive surge from the Angels could provide them a chance to clinch a victory. If Kochanowicz faces difficulties early, he will likely be removed quickly. The Braves are currently in a slump, making this matchup a potential battleground until the final out. Betting on Los Angeles +1.5 appears to be the safest option.
