I'm selecting the "over" in this matchup, regardless of the combined score, for a couple of reasons. I anticipate the total score to hover around the nine-and-a-half mark, but I'd be perfectly content with a double-digit figure. The Braves have demonstrated their ability to surpass the set totals, thanks to their impressive offensive performance. However, the Cardinals' offensive output may ultimately tip the scales in favor of the over. Atlanta is likely to score more than their fair share of runs in this contest, especially with Miles Mikolas on the mound for the Cardinals, who has posted a 4.66 ERA this season. While the Braves have yet to announce their starting pitcher, knowing it won't be Spencer Strider or Max Fried, I believe the Cardinals have a good chance of racking up runs. Anticipate several runs being scored within the first five innings, with late-inning action pushing us past the total. The Cardinals' bullpen has shown vulnerabilities this season, and the Braves tend to capitalize when they can. Regarding recent trends, the Cardinals have either surpassed or reached the total in four of their last five games, while the Braves have exceeded the total in half of their last ten games, with five of those games featuring double-digit totals. Furthermore, historical matchups between these teams have resulted in the total being exceeded in four of their last six meetings overall, further boosting my confidence in taking the over for this game.
