Off a pair of wins vs. the Giants and a rain day, the Cardinals run out Miles Mikolas (1.49 ERA), one of the hottest pitchers in the league. It is not a surprise; a healthy Mikolas has always been an effective pitcher. He has done all that has been asked of him, pitching for very good length, and limiting hits & runs. And had great run support in his last two starts!

His mound opponent, Mets’ right hander Williams (5.73 ERA) is more of a long reliever with just one previous start this year. It was not successful. The Cardinals have hit Williams very hard in previous meetings.

Consider this more of a bullpen day for the Mets. Neither pen has been particularly effective of late, but expect the Mets to dip into theirs far more than the Cardinals. The Cardinals have been swinging very hot bats recently. The Mets’ offense has been solid this year but has slumped recently.

Mikolas will be the difference in this game. Expect a similar long start from him; he has been very consistent. Some of the shine has come off the Mets after their very strong start. Take the Cardinals, a slight underdog, to win today.