MLB Game 2 Preview: Arizona Diamondbacks vs Philadelphia Phillies

The MLB playoffs are heating up, and tonight presents a riveting showdown between the Arizona Diamondbacks and the Philadelphia Phillies at the Citizens Bank Park. Here's a comprehensive preview and some top betting tips to consider.

Team Overview

Arizona Diamondbacks (ARI)

• Season Record: 89-79
• Away Record: 45-41
• Run Differential: RF 4.64 - RA 4.63
• Totals Record (O/U): 72-87

Philadelphia Phillies (PHI)

• Season Record: 96-73
• Home Record: 54-32
• Run Differential: RF 4.92 - RA 4.31
• Totals Record (O/U): 76-79

Betting Odds:

• Arizona: Money Line +138, Over 7.5 -110, Run Line +1.5 -152
• Philadelphia: Money Line -164, Under 7.5 -110, Run Line -1.5 +126

Head-To-Head (Recent Games)

Over their last 10 matchups, the Diamondbacks have a slight edge over the Phillies with a 6-4 record. When considering totals, the over has hit in 6 out of the 10 games, with 2 pushes.

Key Matchup: Merrill Kelly vs Phillies' Batting Order

Merrill Kelly's Recent Form

• Last 5 Average: 6.0 IP, 4.2 H, 2.2 R, 2.2 ER, 5.4 SO, 2.6 BB
• Key Stat: Kelly has averaged an ERA of 2.20 over his last five starts, signaling he's in strong form.

Kelly's performance against the Phillies has been a mix. While he has showcased dominant outings, there have been moments when the Phillies' lineup managed to extract significant runs. His last outing against the Phillies saw him give up 3 runs in 6 innings.

Team Pitching Analysis

• Arizona's Bullpen: ERA of 4.42, allowing a batting AVG of .248 with a WHIP of 1.32 over an average of 8.2 innings.

• Philadelphia's Bullpen: A more impressive ERA of 3.93, restricting teams to a batting AVG of .235 and maintaining a WHIP of 1.22 over an average of 8.2 innings.

Betting Tips

1. Money Line: Given the Phillies' superior home record and recent form, they appear to be the stronger bet on the money line.

2. Total Runs (O/U): Considering the strong form of Kelly and the general tendency of both teams to fall under the total, betting the under might be a prudent choice.

3. Run Line: The Diamondbacks getting 1.5 runs could be a valuable pick, considering their recent close games with the Phillies.

Final Thoughts

Tonight's game promises to be a tight contest. With Kelly in fine form for the Diamondbacks and the Phillies' dominant home record, this playoff matchup offers intriguing betting possibilities. As always, ensure you place bets responsibly and enjoy the game!

Disclaimer: Betting comes with risks. Please bet responsibly and ensure you are of the legal age in your jurisdiction.