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Cardinals' Nolan Gorman and Dodgers Set for a Thrilling Clash at Busch Stadium

First Inning


As the Cardinals prepare to face off against the Dodgers at Busch Stadium, all eyes will be on Nolan Gorman, the standout second baseman for the Redbirds. Over the last three games, Gorman has demonstrated exceptional prowess at the plate, boasting an impressive .500 batting average with a home run and two RBIs in their recent game against the Royals. His slugging percentage of 1.25 and OPS of 1.85 highlight his ability to deliver powerful hits that could set the tone early in this matchup.


Aug 17, 2024; St. Louis, Missouri, USA;  Los Angeles Dodgers designated hitter Shohei Ohtani (17) celebrates after he hit a solo home run against the St. Louis Cardinals in the fifth inning at Busch Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Tim Vizer-USA TODAY Sports

On the mound for the Cards, Steven Matz has had a challenging stretch with an ERA of 13.5 across his appearances, but his strikeout rate of 13.5 per nine innings shows potential for dominance if he can find his rhythm early against a formidable Dodgers lineup.


For the Dodgers, Freddie Freeman remains a key player to watch. The first baseman has maintained a solid .400 average over his past games, contributing two RBIs in their series against the Mets. His consistent performance will be crucial as they aim to take an early lead.


Aug 17, 2024; St. Louis, Missouri, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers designated hitter Shohei Ohtani (17) slides safely into second base as St. Louis Cardinals second baseman Nolan Gorman (16) waits on the throw at Busch Stadium in the first inning. Mandatory Credit: Tim Vizer-USA TODAY Sports

Middle Innings


As we move into the middle innings, Cardinals' pitcher Sonny Gray could play a pivotal role in maintaining control of the game. With an impressive ERA of 0.0 and a WHIP of 0.7143 from his last outing against Texas Rangers, Gray's ability to keep runners off base will be vital in containing Dodgers' offensive threats like Mookie Betts and Max Muncy.


Betts has shown flashes of brilliance with a .400 average in one of his recent performances against New York Mets, while Muncy delivered two home runs in another game during that series, showcasing their potential to shift momentum swiftly.


Aug 17, 2024; St. Louis, Missouri, USA; St. Louis Cardinals shortstop Masyn Winn (0) throws to first base, trying for a double play against the Los Angeles Dodgers at Busch Stadium in the seventh inning, but only got Los Angeles Dodgers outfielder Andy Pages (44, right) out. Mandatory Credit: Tim Vizer-USA TODAY Sports

Meanwhile, Cardinals' outfielder Lars Nootbaar has been consistent defensively with perfect fielding percentages across multiple games and could contribute offensively as well if he maintains his recent form at bat.


Late Innings


In the late innings, relief pitchers from both teams will likely determine who comes out on top. For St. Louis, Ryan Helsley stands out with an ERA of 0.0 and no walks allowed over his appearances—his precision pitching could stifle any late-game rallies by Los Angeles.


The Dodgers’ bullpen features Tanner Scott who secured a win recently with an impressive K/9 rate of 18.0 without allowing any runs or walks—a testament to his capability under pressure situations which might prove decisive if it’s close heading into these final frames.


As anticipation builds for this clash between two storied franchises on June 7th at Busch Stadium in St. Louis (broadcasted on SportsNet LA), fans can expect fireworks from both sides given their top performers’ current form and past encounters filled with thrilling moments.


Don’t miss out on what promises to be an exciting showdown! Share this article with fellow baseball enthusiasts and join us as we witness whether Nolan Gorman can lead Cardinals past Dodgers or if Los Angeles will continue their strong run!

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