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Royals Rely on Michael Wacha to Clinch Series vs. D-backs

The Diamondbacks and the Royals will both be trying to pick up a win when they battle at Kauffman Stadium.

(Photo by Getty Images) Michael Wacha

Arizona (52-50) at Kansas City (56-46)

  • When: Jul 24 2024, 8:10 PM
  • Where: Kauffman Stadium, Kansas City
  • Where to watch: ARID

Game Odds, Spread, Moneyline & Total

Arizona Diamondbacks @ Kansas City Royals
Moneyline

Arizona Diamondbacks   +105
Kansas City Royals   -125

Arizona Diamondbacks @ Kansas City Royals
Runline

Arizona Diamondbacks   1.5 (-195)
Kansas City Royals   -1.5 (+165)

Arizona Diamondbacks @ Kansas City Royals
Total

Over   9.0 (-115)
Under   9.0 (-105)

Probable Pitchers:
Arizona: Ryne Nelson (7-6, 4.78)
Kansas City: Michael Wacha (7-6, 3.55)

Team Stats

Diamondbacks   Royals
52-50 Record 56-46
26-26 Away & Home 21-27
7-3 Last 10 7-3
W1 Streak L1

Game Preview

As the Kansas City Royals gear up for the deciding game of their three-game set against the Arizona Diamondbacks, they’re focusing on a more varied approach to winning, stepping away from relying solely on standout Bobby Witt Jr.

Royals manager Matt Quatraro emphasized the need for versatility in their game plan. "A good team identity involves diversity," Quatraro explained. "It’s not just about speed or power; we need multiple strategies to overcome opponents."

Maikel Garcia, who has primarily been a leadoff hitter this season, was recently moved to the eighth spot as the team seeks greater consistency in their lineup. Quatraro praised Garcia’s adaptability, noting, "Maikel is versatile. Even if he isn’t hitting, his ability to walk and then steal bases is invaluable."

Since the All-Star break, batting lower in the order, Garcia has gone 6-for-19 with five runs scored. He was on a 10-game hitting streak before a 0-for-4 outing in Tuesday’s 6-2 loss to Arizona.

Reflecting on Garcia’s performance post-break, Quatraro said, "He seems rejuvenated. He took the break to reset both mentally and physically, and he’s returned ready to contribute."

On the mound for Wednesday’s game, the Royals will start Michael Wacha (7-6, 3.55 ERA), who has been impressive since early May. After a rough start on May 4, where he allowed seven runs against the Texas Rangers, Wacha has compiled a 6-2 record with a 2.30 ERA, ensuring he hasn’t given up more than three earned runs in his last 10 starts. Against the Diamondbacks, he holds a 2-1 record with a 4.58 ERA over eight starts.

The Diamondbacks will respond with Ryne Nelson (7-6, 4.78 ERA), who has also shown strong form lately, going 4-1 in his last seven outings. Despite one rough start, Nelson has maintained a solid strikeout-to-walk ratio and comes off a strong performance against the Chicago Cubs, where he allowed just one run and struck out nine over 5 2/3 innings.

This matchup promises a competitive clash as both teams vie for a series victory at Kauffman Stadium.

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MLB Parlay Picks & Predictions

Final Score: Kansas City 6-4
Expert Pick: Kansas City -125 & Over 9 (-115)
A $100 Parlay Bet will return $338

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