Mets (Stroman) vs Phillies (Gibson)

The Phillies are hard-charging, sweeping the Nationals in their last series. Since today’s starter Kurt Gibson’s first appearance with the Phillies, the team is 5-0, and they now start a vital series with the Mets only one game back. The Mets appear to be in the doldrums at 1-5, having done little at the trade deadline to address their light hitting.

Marcus Stroman (7-10, 2.80) had a rough start last time out but has been consistent in allowing few runs per start. Kyle Gibson (7-3, 2.86) seems charged up with his change of scene and has returned

to form with a 2 run 6+ inning effort. He had been through a rough patch in his final games with Texas.

The Phillies have been scoring runs in bunches while the Mets, as usual, struggle to produce. The Mets’ usually dependable bullpen has struggled of late, the Phillies’ relief is much better on this recent run. The Mets have struggled on the road. The Phillies have a strong home record.

Stroman has had very little run support this season, hence his poor win/loss record of 7-10. We can’t speak of run support for Gibson as this is only his second start but the Phillies have a much superior offense. I am wagering on the Phillies, a small favorite, to take this game. So, Phillies to win outright!