Atlanta (Morton) vs. Philadelphia (Moore)

Here is a tale of two pitchers. One, Charlie Morton, has pitched well through the season with a record of 8-3 and an ERA of 3.60, and yet his team is only 10-9 with him pitching. The other, Matt Moore, is 0-1, with an ERA of 5.65, yet his team is 6-1 with Moore on the mound. Go figure.. For Moore, this issue is start length; for example, none of his last three starts lasted more than 4.1 innings. These positive team outcomes? Chalk it up to good pitcher management.

Atlanta lost a tight one last night. The Phillies are coming off a pair of losses to the Yankees. Motivation should not be an issue. A wild card spot is a potential for one of these teams. The Phillies have a very strong home record. Atlanta has been good in past meetings vs. Moore, Philadelphia only so-so against Morton.

My wager.

Moore is coming off a 9 strikeout game and has only allowed 2 runs in each of his last three (albeit short)starts. Atlanta has that nagging history of not giving Morton much support. Philadelphia’s relief core has been strong. Fatigue may play a roll here, as Atlanta had a home double-header yesterday, and is away today. Atlanta’s pen has not been sharp. Take the Phillies with the spread +1.5.