Anytime the Phillies have trotted out a starting pitcher not named Cristopher Sanchez, Zack Wheeler, or Jesus Luzardo, it has been in trouble. Andrew Painter doesn’t inspire confidence after not recording a win since March 31st. In addition, Philadelphia is just 3-11 in his starts, while not winning when he has toed the rubber since May 18.
St. Louis is coming off its first home series win since the All-Star Break. While it came against the lowly Rockies, the fact that it averaged more than five runs per game should be a catalyst for this series opener
🏆 Who will win Phillies vs. Cardinals?
Philadelphia being three games under .500 against NL Central teams and having an even run differential despite being seven games over .500 for the season are reasons I’m skeptical about its chances to win this series opener.