Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the MLB match.
The Philadelphia Phillies open the week at the top of the NL East and begin a fresh series against the San Diego Padres, who limp into town after letting a series lead slip away in Cincinnati. Losing two out of three to the Cincinnati Reds, the Padres’ bullpen faltered late, which is uncharacteristic for one of the best relief units in the league.
Philadelphia Phillies
The Philadelphia Phillies’ offence remains wildly inconsistent. One night they’re scoring 10+ runs, and the next they can’t manage more than two. Over the past week, they were held to two runs or fewer in five different games. The absence of Bryce Harper, sidelined since 5 June, continues to hurt. Even if he makes a cameo at the plate, he’s clearly not at full strength yet. On the mound, however, the Phillies will be sending out ace Zack Wheeler (2.45 ERA), who has allowed one or fewer earned runs in seven of his last eight starts.
San Diego Padres
Sunday’s late collapse against the Cincinnati Reds was highly unexpected, given how strong the Padres’ bullpen has been this season. With a 3.36 ERA (fifth-best in the majors) and a 37-2 record when leading after eight innings, it’s unlikely they’ll falter again in a similar scenario — especially against the Phillies’ unimpressive offence.
Philadelphia Phillies vs San Diego Padres Prediction
The under has landed in 7 of the Phillies’ last 10 games, and the Padres have trended similarly, with just one push in that span. With both lineups cold and Wheeler on the mound, expect another low-scoring contest.
