Players To Watch
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Braves' Ronald Acuña Jr. Set to Face Cardinals: Key Players to Watch at Busch Stadium

First Inning


As the Braves prepare to take on the Cardinals at Busch Stadium, all eyes will be on Ronald Acuña Jr., who has been a standout performer for the Bravos in recent games. With an impressive batting average of .600 and an OPS of 2.6 from his last three outings, Acuña Jr. is undoubtedly one of the top performers for Atlanta. His ability to get on base and drive in runs makes him a crucial player for the Braves as they aim to gain an early advantage against the Redbirds.


Apr 23, 2025; Cumberland, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Braves outfielder Eli White (36) reacts after hitting a three run home run against the St. Louis Cardinals during the eighth inning at Truist Park. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-Imagn Images

On the other side, the Cardinals will look to capitalize on their home-field advantage. Lars Nootbaar, despite a mixed performance recently, has shown flashes of brilliance with a .500 average and an OPS of 1.25 in one of his previous games. The Cards will rely on him to set the tone early and challenge Atlanta's pitching staff.


Middle Innings


The middle innings could see some intense battles between pitchers and hitters from both sides. For the Braves, Spencer Strider stands out as a key pitcher with a respectable ERA of 4.05 and a K/9 rate of 14.85 over his last three appearances. His ability to strike out batters will be vital in keeping St. Louis's lineup at bay.


Apr 23, 2025; Cumberland, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Braves outfielder Eli White (36) reacts with first base Matt Olson (28) and second base Ozzie Albies (1) after hitting a three run home run against the St. Louis Cardinals during the eighth inning at Truist Park. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-Imagn Images

Meanwhile, Nolan Arenado remains a pivotal figure for the Cardinals with consistent performances across recent games, boasting an average of .333 and an OPS of 0.833. His presence at third base adds depth to St. Louis's defense while also providing offensive firepower.


Late Innings


As we approach the late innings, expect both teams to lean heavily on their bullpen strength. Raisel Iglesias has been stellar for Atlanta with a perfect ERA and WHIP over his last few outings, making him a reliable option for closing out tight situations.


Apr 23, 2025; Cumberland, Georgia, USA; St. Louis Cardinals catcher Yohel Pozo (63) looks into the dugout against the Atlanta Braves during the first inning at Truist Park. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-Imagn Images

For St. Louis, JoJo Romero's impressive K/9 rate of 18 in recent games highlights his potential impact as a reliever capable of shutting down opposing hitters when it matters most.


In this clash between two competitive teams, top 3 players to watch Braves include Ronald Acuña Jr., Spencer Strider, and Raisel Iglesias due to their exceptional form and influence on game outcomes.


The upcoming showdown promises excitement as returning players for Braves aim to make their mark against rising stars in Braves vs Cardinals matchup at Busch Stadium.


Fans can catch all the action live on FDSSO when these two teams face off on July 13th at 2:15 PM ET in St. Louis.


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