Let’s dive into some MLB action as the Oakland Athletics prepare to take on the Arizona Diamondbacks. Oakland, fresh off a thrilling late-game grand slam victory, are once again the heavy underdog against the D-backs, which has become a standard scenario this year, irrespective of the pitcher the A’s send to the mound. Arizona has been assigned a -163 moneyline price at the FanDuel Sportsbook, with a total listed at 9.5.

The Athletics will send Luis Medina to the mound, who, despite not being a great pitcher, presents an interesting situation. As a right-handed pitcher, he struggles against right-handed batters. His left-handed opponents have averaged a .306 weighted on-base percentage (wOBA), slightly above average, but he also has a slightly higher ISO power number of .235.

The Diamondbacks’ lineup, expected to feature Christian Walker in the cleanup hole batting right-handed, should excel today. Interestingly, the rest of the eight batters are expected to bat from the left-hand side. This strategy is typically employed against weaker right-handed pitchers, loading up the lefties. However, Medina has been hit harder by right-handed batters.

Despite this, it’s challenging to trust the Oakland Athletics to suppress the Diamondbacks’ offense. Arizona is likely to continue their hard-hitting streak, with a probable score of five or more runs today.

In yesterday’s game, both teams had to use 18 players, including 12 position players and six pitchers, indicating that the bullpens are exhausted. This implies that regardless of their performance, Ryne Nelson and Medina will likely stay on the mound.

Given these circumstances, the D-backs look like the team to back. Moreover, the over also seems like a good bet. Considering the worn-out bullpens, we might be looking at a high-scoring game. So, if you’re betting on this Athletics vs. Diamondbacks game, consider Arizona for the win and the over.